The University of Mississippi Athletics
Grove-Side Q&A
5/9/2007 | Athletics
This is the fourth installment of OleMissSports.com's Grove-Side Q&As and features Ole Miss Director of Athletics Pete Boone. Questions were sent in by fans through OleMissSports.com in recent weeks and touch on a variety of topics. Grove-Side Q&As are a regular feature on OleMissSports.com and provide Rebel fans interactive opportunites with some of the key figures in Ole Miss athletics.
Q: Knowing we are about to embark on building a state-of-the-art basketball practice facility (and if it is anything like the other upgrades we have had like baseball, softball, football, etc., we are excited), have the plans been finalized and what is the timeline for announcing it and finishing it?
A: The 45,000 square foot facility will be located across from the
Q: Why has there not been anything done to better the University Golf Course?
A: For the last two decades, athletics had responsibility for maintenance of the course. Beginning last fall, the University has taken over that responsibility. They have a great plan that includes spending several million dollars for upgrades to the clubhouse and the course.
Q: What type of music do you listen to on your ipod?
A: What’s an ipod?
Q: Why is so much emphasis placed on season tickets?
A: Season ticket sales are the lifeblood of our program. Trying to plan for five years and out with any financial consideration (i.e. facilities, etc.) is much more difficult to do without expectations of strong season ticket sales. It was really evident in basketball over the last five years, and it probably delayed our ability to plan not only remodeling the coliseum tunnel area but, more importantly, building a new practice facility. With increased ticket sales this year and expectations for upcoming years, we are able to make more definitive plans and progress at a more rapid pace.
Q: Is Ole Miss considering expanding RV parking for fans from what is currently available?
A: The University has responsibility for RV parking. I am not aware of any current plans to expand it.
Q: Is there any chance you would be stepping down anytime soon?
A: A lot of that would depend on the Chancellor and my wife. The Chancellor obviously has first call, and my wife second. I also need a better definition of soon.
Coming soon to OleMissSports.com will be an analysis of Accelerated Performance Rate (APR) and how it affects Ole Miss and college athletics.
PREVIOUS GROVE-SIDE Q&A:
Women's Basketball Coach Carol Ross (December 15, 2006)
Men's Basketball Coach Andy Kennedy (November 15, 2006)
Athletics Director Pete Boone (October 18, 2006)