Although things have improved YSU is one of the all-time worst mens programs in D1 the last 30+ years. The players the last two years came here for a pay day. How sustainable is that moving forward?
Very good question. I think that the answer is: nobody really knows!
Supposedly, we formed an organized NIL, the Penguin Collective, before any other school in the league. From comments scattered across the internet, we offer the most NIL money. The big question: is that true? If so, will we remain the Horizon League leader?
Maybe we will. Think about this. The vast majority of the schools in the Horizon League are afterthoughts in the large cities in which they are located. Outside of alumni, few sports fans care about Robert Morris in Pittsburgh, or Oakland/Detroit in the Motor City. IUPUI has no fans at all. Northern Kentucky must compete with Cincinnati right across the river, and UK is 90 miles to the south. Wright State is the perpetual little brother to Dayton. And Cleveland State is irrelevant within metro Cleveland.
Conversely, we are the central attraction in the Mahoning Valley. Our wealthy individuals and corporations sell out the football loges and, I assume, fill the coffers of the Penguin Collective. As long as we can pay out more than our Horizon League rivals, maybe we can "buy" more talent every year. But all bets are off if Calhoun leaves.
Excellent post! Agree 100%. That fact you're seeing all these stars such as Reynolds, Warrick, Freeman, Burns etc probably tells you they are seeking more NIL money.
Coach Calhoun has done a good job navigating this the last 2 years, but things can change so much year to year. And if and when he leaves all bets are off.
I just wish there was a 1 time or 2 time transfer rule or add if the 2nd or 3rd time transfer they would have to sit out a year...wishful thinking, but I've heard even the Duquesne coach mention this.