Maryland Athletics Coaches, AD take voluntary pay cuts
COLLEGE PARK – Thirteen University of Maryland sports coaches and Athletic Director Damon Evans have volunteered to take additional pay cuts, according to a press release.
The athletic department announced that all head coaches who receive supplemental pay agreed to take a 10% voluntary pay cut, along with their university-imposed base pay reduction set by President Darryll Pines. Evans will take a voluntary pay cut of 10% from his supplemental pay.
“This is an incredible demonstration of generosity and commitment to the mission of our athletic department,” Evans said. “I appreciate these coaches’ continued understanding during these unprecedented times.”
The list of coaches includes Sasho Cirovski (men’s soccer), Brenda Frese (women’s basketball), Michael Locksley (football), Missy Meharg (field hockey), Cathy Reese (women’s lacrosse), John Tillman (men’s lacrosse) and Mark Turgeon (men’s basketball).
The athletic department also confirmed that the university’s highest-earning assistant coaches with supplemental pay have agreed to take a voluntary pay cut.
“The pandemic has dealt us a financial crisis that requires difficult decisions,” Evans said. “We continue to stay resilient, and we will get through this together. Focus on the health, safety and welfare of our student-athletes remains our top priority as we are committed to maintaining their student experience to the best of our abilities.”
The pay cuts come after Evans said in a Sept. 16 press conference that the university was projected to lose $60 million without a football season due to the pandemic.
To help offset its losses, the department launched a fundraising campaign called “More than the Score.” Funds will also cover operational expenses, including COVID-19 testing, mental health services, and technology support for virtual classes and tutoring.
Those who contribute to the campaign will receive a limited edition t-shirt and double Terpoints (16 points per $100) for gift allocation. Donors who contribute $5,000 or more will be recognized with a permanent display at the XFINITY Center.
The athletic department also announced Friday that between Sept. 14-20, 14 student-athletes tested positive for COVID-19. Ten were already in quarantine. In total, Maryland Athletics have performed 3,826 tests, and 109 returned back with positive results.
Courtesy photo
