The Old Boys' Network

Division I athletic programs have very few women athletic directors (Acosta & Carpenter, 2008). Homologous reproduction and the old boys network provide an explanation for why so few women become athletic directors. This study demonstrates these influences in the athletic director search process among Division I athletic programs. Women leaders in the senior level athletic administration at Far West institutions were interviewed. Data analysis reveals how candidate criteria, the search committee, and search firm involvement contribute to the old boys network and disadvantage women candidates in the athletic director hiring process.