NCET Biz Tips: Importance of community relationships in intercollegiate athletics

The strength of community relationships is crucial for the success of the Nevada Wolf Pack athletics program.

The University of Nevada is at the heart of the Biggest Little City in the World and after several months of calling the Reno, Sparks and Tahoe community home, I have seen firsthand how tightknit this community is. Many of the people I’ve had the privilege of meeting are not only true Nevadans, but life-long Wolf Pack supporters and alumni. Many others are new to the area and are learning the value of the university in their new community. An important aspect of building a successful athletics program is recognizing the importance of community relationships and investing our time as coaches, staff and student athletes into this community.

The benefits of a successful athletic program are endless for a community and a campus. These relationships greatly impact the success of the Wolf Pack program while also making a difference for the individuals who make up this community.

How do we strengthen our relationships in the community?

Engage: all of us in Nevada Athletics must invest time into the community by attending events, volunteering, and collaborate on various initiatives that benefit both the university and the community. Invite the community to campus and to sporting events, interact with individuals, follow-up and follow through with the people you meet. Always remember that people want to be remembered and love to be thanked.

Transparency: always be honest and clear, share expectations and be held accountable. Share what you need to and provide avenues for people to help.

Prioritize our student-athletes: Our student-athletes are the very reason why we are all here. Their experience and success at the university relies heavily on the program we build for them. We must interact with our student-athletes on a regular basis and provide avenues for them to engage in the community. Their community involvement shows them the support they have while also giving them the opportunity to serve as role models for the next generation.

Learn about “The Importance of Community Relationships in Intercollegiate Athletics” and more at NCET’s Biz Bite on Feb. 1 with the program and lunch from noon to 1 p.m. with networking from 11 a.m. until noon. NCET is a member-supported nonprofit organization that produces educational and networking events to help people explore business and technology. More info at www.NCETbite.org

Stephanie Rempe is the director of athletics at the University of Nevada https://nevadawolfpack.com/