ABSTRACT
The lingering impact of the Covid-19 pandemic upon college athletics is multi-layered, impacting not only competition, but recruitment, finances, graduation rates, retention, and professional careers. As such, stakeholders at all levels have expressed grave concern about the survival of college sports in light of significant future challenges. The global impact of this pandemic must also be considered at a local level, taking into consideration how administrators who assist with coordination, finance, and governance are balancing their responsibilities and the ways in which they will lead moving forward. The authors of this chapter serve in four capacities within higher education: athletic academics, athletic fundraising, conference administration, and faculty. As doctoral students, full-time professionals, and faculty, the authors consider the local impact of Covid-19 within sports by looking at the ways in which the pandemic has impacted how administrators function in their professional roles. The chapter is reflective and provides recommendations about the importance of consistent communication and person-centered leadership within and across institutions during a time of crisis.
