This proves there must be other factors related to attendance besides performance. Smith listed the atmosphere, seating, music, cheerleaders, concessions, prices, timing, facilities and restrooms as other factors which contribute to attendance numbers. For instance, performance of athletes is related to the team's recruiting program, which is affected by the team's reputation, previous records and rankings. The NCAA determines the number of scholarships allowed to be given in each sport which effects recruiting, and Smith said the quality of recruiting is related to the amount of money put into the process. The time when games are scheduled also affects attendance numbers.
Money is the overall driving force behind attendance.
An increase in funding for a sport by the athletic department is directly related to a rise in attendance, Smith said. Each sport also has its own marketing plan which is responsible for the schedule cards, posters, display advertisementss and the sports information department. Nunez said contests and events, like the upcoming basketball shoot-out on Saturday, help to make marketing fun. On the legal side of things, Title 9 requires the university to make sure the ratio of males and females participating in sports are equal to or better than the ratio of males and females enrolled in the university. ISU has 15 women's sports and 13 men's sports.