CHANGE TO DIVISION I EXHIBITS EARLY BENEFITS

In May of 1988, Southeast Missouri State University decided to make the transition to Division I. But it wasn't until the fall of 1991 that the move became a reality. University officials pointed to many advantages of Division I - both in the sporting arena, and in recruiting of students.

The advantages - some tangible, some more elusive - are already evident at Southeast. But it's really too early to judge the move to Division I, although the benefits so far have far exceeded our expectations. It may take five or 10 years to realize the full benefits. The transition must be one of patience and perseverance - as our teams grow accustomed to playing better-financed teams with a Division I tradition. Southeast finished third in football and baseball, seventh in men's basketball, and fourth in women's basketball in 1991-92.

Many of the early differences between divisions can be found in athletics. The university has gained exposure through increased media coverage. For example, 10 football and basketball contests will be televised this year to a five-state region - to literally millions of people.

Game attendance has also grown steadily since 1986. In its first year of Division I, Southeast recorded the highest average basketball attendance of the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC). Average football attendance now runs around 6,640, a slight drop from the fall of 1990, the last season of Division II competition. Average attendance at basketball games amounted to 5,391 per home game as of the 1991-92 season, up slightly over Division II levels.

All of this is proof of strong community support for Southeast, despite the tougher schedules. When Southeast becomes eligible for post-season basketball tournament play in three more years, the exposure and revenues may grow even more. The OVC has recently appealed this penalty, delaying post-season play.

The move to Division I meant more money for athletics - but much of that increase in program costs has been borne by the program itself. Southeast is one of the few I-AA programs which pay for all of scholarships out of the athletic revenue. With 153 scholarships this year, that translates into a healthy chunk of money. That compares to 98 athletic scholarships under Division II.

The move to Division I has also boosted the booster club and private donations substantially. The booster club membership has grown to an impressive 1,000 plus - up from 820 the last year of Division II. Southeast athletics generates about $1.3 million in revenues, and another $100,000 to $200,000 in in-kind gifts and services. In fact, Southeast leads the OVC in athletics revenue.

Division I was also sold as a recruiting tool for other students as well. But no one expected an instant improvement in enrollment. It may take five to 10 years to see an improvement in numbers. But as Southeast's name becomes more widespread, that should translate into more students.

Southeast has many other changes as well that should impact enrollment such as higher admission standards, which may lower enrollment in the short run. Eventually these stricter standards will increase retention rates and overall enrollment. Division I and higher standards should also help recruit growing numbers of exceptional students. Southeast has 13 Merit Finalists this year, and university officials hope that number will continue to grow.

Division I is no panacea. It's not the cure-all to all Southeast's financial and enrollment ills. But it should provide a strong foundation for future growth. Already, some benefits of Division I are visible in athletic revenues. We must give Division I time to age. Other gains should follow in the years ahead.