New Texas A&M AD Trev Alberts Geared Up for Sweeping Changes in College Athletics
Introduction
Having taken the reins as the new Athletic Director at Texas A&M University, Trev Alberts is in full readiness to guide the Aggie athletic department into the rapidly evolving business landscape of college athletics. Tapping into relationships developed over a sterling career and drawing from an array of past experiences, Alberts is determined to face the future with a robust business strategy.
A Business Outlook on Athletic Leadership
Alberts approaches his role as athletic director from a unique business-oriented viewpoint. “Now, more than ever before, we run a business and I know that’s really uncomfortable in our space, because that’s not why a lot of us got into this, right?” Alberts said during his introductory event. Reiterating his commitment to ethical business conduct, Alberts emphasized that he would always prioritize the interest of student-athletes.
In his role, Alberts anticipates major shifts in the business of college athletics, with milestone court cases on the horizon aiming to redefine the status quo. One such case, House v. NCAA, posits a significant shift towards revenue sharing with athletes.
In this context, Alberts predicts that athletic departments nationwide will need to create new expense categories to provide direct payment to student-athletes. According to his estimations, this could amount to annual expenditures between $15 and $20 million.
Alberts’ Business Acumen Draws Praise
A&M President Mark Welsh, along with the search committee, have expressed their confidence in Alberts’ vision and business acumen as deciding factors in his selection. Welsh has praised Alberts for the unique perspective he brings to the business of college athletics and his willingness to explore future possibilities.
Alberts’ Journey from Nebraska to Texas A&M
Reflecting on his departure from his alma mater, Nebraska, Alberts expressed gratitude for the life-changing opportunities the university had offered. However, the chance to work under the leadership at Texas A&M and the potential for aligning with an institution poised to be a leader in the industry convinced him to make the transition. Alberts believes that the proposed changes to college athletics will not necessarily harm all institutions and seems intended to create a positive impact at Texas A&M.
Embracing the Future of College Athletics
As the landscape of college athletics evolves, Alberts concedes that adaptation and nimbleness are key. Recognizing that change can be hard and discomforting, Alberts sees opportunity in the challenge. His vision is to lead an adaptive and resilient athletic department that remains competitive no matter the financial future of college athletics.
As A&M women’s basketball coach Joni Taylor puts it, “We need to be prepared for whatever comes.” With Alberts’ business expertise and his determination to uphold the interests of student-athletes, it seems that the Aggie athletic department is indeed ready to navigate the uncertainties that lie on the horizon.
