WAC directors expected to approve TV deals
By Ferd Lewis
Advertiser Staff Writer
For the first time in four years, there will be few critical issues facing the Western Athletic Conference presidents at their annual meetings.
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The WAC Board of Directors, which is composed of the presidents of the nine-member schools, open two days of meetings today in Carmel, Calif., looking to solidify the conference rather than undertake immediate changes.
"No crucial decisions at this time," said Karl Benson, WAC commissioner.
Three years ago the conference was facing the uncertainty that came with the breakaway of eight members. Two years ago there was the issue of expansion. And last year there was the announced departure of Texas Christian and a review of expansion.
"I don't see any issues of that caliber up for debate this time," said Karl Benson, WAC commissioner. "We're not facing any crucial decisions at this time."
But these meetings will mark a transition on a couple levels. This will be the last meeting that Kenneth Mortimer, University of Hawai'i president, will represent the Rainbows. He twice led the WAC directors. It will also be the final meeting that TCU is eligible to attend. The Horned Frogs join Conference USA on July 1. Boise State and Louisiana Tech will expand conference membership to 10 when they official join the WAC, also on July 1.
The WAC, which is currently headquartered in Englewood, Colo., a vestige of the old, 16-team conference, will discuss a report analyzing the cost of relocating the conference offices to either Dallas or San Jose, Calif. Preliminary indications are that costs will likely keep them in their current location.
The presidents are are expected to give formal approval to a new multi-year national television contract for football and men's basketball with ESPN. They may also approve a regional package with Fox. They are also likely to approve returning the conference men's and women's basketball tournaments to Tulsa, Okla., next year. Fresno State and Tulsa were the only bidders.
Members will also divide more than $5 million in NCAA basketball revenue. UH's share is expected to be about $550,000 — approximately the amount TCU will leave on the table because it is not eligible for a share in its final year.
