Abstract
Purpose. This case study was conducted to discover firsthand what were the perceptions of eight high school principals in relation to administering their own high school programs. Secondly, this study probed for steps the CIF could take in order to provide training and service for the principals of its member schools. Specifically, this study used research questions to provide data in five areas: (1) athletic issues at school sites; (2) principal's role with athletic issues; (3) resources needed for athletic programs; (4) role of CIF in assisting principals; (5) recommendations for CIF in preparing principals for athletic issues. Methodology. Eight high school principals were chosen by an expert panel to participate in this descriptive case study. Principals chosen had to meet set criteria for years, sport offerings, and CIF associations. The data for this study were collected during one-on-one interviews with the eight principals at each of their school sites. Findings. It was found that all principals had to deal with athletic issues on a regular basis. The key issues identified were hiring quality coaches, parent demands on coaches and staff; and the increasing influence of club/travel teams. They indicated that district office support and daily athletic communication were critical. Lastly, the principals felt that the CIF was a great resource in working with athletic issues, and that it was the responsibility of both the CIF and principals to establish clear communication. Conclusions. The following conclusions were made: (1) many of today's principals lack the knowledge to make strong informed athletic decisions; (2) CIF must continue to develop a vision for Southern California and its changing demographics; (3) develop facility partnerships to meet current and future needs; and (4) the effects of open enrollment on high school athletics could be damaging. Recommendations. The following are recommendations for further study: (1) replication of this study on a larger scale by geographic region; (2) a historical case study of the CIF Southern Section; (3) examine decision-making strategies used for curriculum versus athletics; and (4) comparison of principals with athletic background versus those without that experience.