re: UAB protest almost turn violent when Watts leaves press conference

Straight from UAB:

UAB subsidizes $20 million of the roughly $30 million annual athletic department operating budget. Over the next five years, the difference between eliminating the football program and maintaining a competitive Conference USA program equates to $49 million, the report estimates.

Some have suggested that philanthropic support could help sustain UAB football, said Allen Bolton, the vice president of Financial Affairs. An internal analysis refuted that notion. Private giving in years past has hovered around $2 million, which suggests donations could not realistically support the program, Bolton said.

He said the University of Alabama system's Board of Trustees was not involved, despite widespread speculation to the contrary.

Watts believes the impact on recruitment will be modest, causing few prospective students to reconsider UAB because football isn't the main draw.

He highlighted recent additions or plans for construction on campus - the new Hill Student Center and a new residence hall for freshmen - as successes.

"Our undergraduates have different backgrounds," he said. "This is an urban campus with a vibrant undergraduate community. Attendance at football games has not been a major part of their activities."

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