| The purpose of this study was to document the perceived levels of knowledge and skills of the persons responsible for sport event security management in intercollegiate athletics. The study targeted individuals responsible for event security duties, such as event management and facility operations athletic directors at Division IA football schools (N=81). The study concerned perceptions of their abilities, experiences, training, and education. Specific demographic variables of these schools were also measured. All 81 participants indicated "some" inclusion of security operations within their job scope. Nearly 50% indicated that the responsibility of game-day security comes from within the athletic department administration.;Sixty-two percent of all respondents reported having no formal training, education, or certifications in event security management. Gaps or areas of concern in security management capabilities of athletic department staff were identified. These gaps, currently not discussed in recent literature, will aid in the future development of education, training, and certification programs that can be tailored to the needs of athletic departments. No significant differences were found in perceived capabilities and the variables of football conference, football attendance, education, years of experience, and positions. |
