Commission for Recreation and Athletics

Operating Documents for the Commission for Recreation and Athletics (CRA) are available here (as of September 10, 2010). Each year, the CRA also creates an Action Plan, which includes annual goals and objectives with relation to ACPA’s strategic plan. The Action Plan is also in congruence with planning for the ACPA annual conference and defined strategic issues in campus recreation and intercollegiate athletics.

Action Plan Executive Overview for 2011-12

The CRA has developed specific objectives for the 2012-13 year.  These action items were discussed and approved by the Directorate in June 2012. 

Strategic Action Priorities for 2012-2013:

1. To focus on student learning and development— create professional development opportunities that will assist professionals to:
   1. Understand the impact of participation in recreational sports and athletics on students; and to value the unique issues and concerns of students in association with their specific context of experience (recreation or athletics) through the lens of student learning and development.
   2. Articulate specific areas of knowledge and competencies that serve as student learning outcomes as a result of experience in programs and services in recreation and athletics.
   3. Understand and use assessment methods appropriate in determining the manner and degree to which learning and development has occurred.
2. To focus on creation and dissemination of knowledge— contribute to existing ACPA publications/materials and develop additional professional development publications/materials and opportunities that:
   1. Add to the existing body of knowledge on topics relevant to campus recreation and athletics.
   2. Convey the unique contributions of a student affairs perspective to the appropriate bodies of knowledge on campus recreation and athletics.
   3. Facilitate and encourage professional’s examination of the bodies of knowledge on campus recreation in support of informed and effective practice.
3. To focus on the development of professional competencies paired with career advancement— assist in the articulation of the knowledge and skills needed by student affairs professionals who serve in or address issues in campus recreation and/or athletics:
   1. As areas of skill and knowledge are defined, such definition will be utilized as a curricular foundation and rationale for programs, services, publications, and other forms of professional development offered by TFRA to ACPA members and student affairs professionals.
   2. Endorsements of specified knowledge and skills will be secured from relevant professional associations and relevant groups (NIRSA, NCAA, etc.)
   3. Quality professional and career development opportunities will be provided, year-round, that appeal to scholars and practitioners at every career level, including professional preparation

Objectives for 2012-2013

1. Produce or support at least 1 article or paper related to Best Practice in Campus Recreation or Intercollegiate Athletics (Markesha McWilliams)
2. Identify and reward deserving professionals through our Awards process (Markesha McWilliams)
3. Share a quarterly newsletter with members (Paul Artale)
4. Have 5 sponsored activities and programs at the 2013 Convention in Las Vegas
5. Create direction for our newly created positions and activities for 2012-13 (Mike Fulford)
6. Increase our research agenda and advocacy (Scott Hirkol)
7. Collaborate with other groups on a Title IX emphasis for the 2013 Convention (Scott Hirko)
8. Develop a stand alone institute or webinar in collaboration with NIRSA (Denny Byrne)