This letter is in response to “Questions surface about USATF’s incentive program for athletes” in the March 30 issue of SportsBusiness Daily.
As the chairman of USATF’s Athletes Advisory Committee (AAC) and a member of USATF’s Board of Directors, I appreciate Ben Fischer’s reporting about the $1.8 million in discretionary cash spending USATF athletes receive through the Revenue Distribution Program. It is important to me that I clarify a few key points, however. First, I must point out that USATF-athlete relations are stronger than they ever have been. We have more representation than ever on USATF’s board, and our AAC leadership meets with the USATF National Office by phone as well as in person on a regular basis. Second, while our 2017 payments may have come later than we would have liked, it was not through negligence or lack of commitment by USATF. AAC leadership has finalized our payment schedule for 2018, and we are looking forward to a successful year. It is the job of the AAC to advocate for athletes and to lead a cooperative relationship with USATF to advance the interests of athletes. With the continued communication between CEO Max Siegel, the athlete leaders and podium coaches, this relationship continues to strengthen.
Jeff Porter
USA Track & Field
