On Saturday, an email to members of the Cal Berkeley athletic department revealed that up to 25 employees could be laid off as part of a “complete redefinition of how we operate.” While new positions will be posted, it is widely expected they will come with lower salaries.
As reported by Jeff Faraudo, Cal Athletics revenue has increased, thanks in part to record fundraising, but so have expenses, particularly for team travel and coaching salaries. The result: a staggering $24.3 million athletic deficit last year.
At the same time, Cal is receiving only a partial share, roughly $9–10 million, of its Atlantic Coast Conference media rights distribution. The school will not receive 70% of a full share until year eight, and will not reach full payout until 2034…