Former Rutgers coach Mike Rice secures a controversial $160,000 position at Linden High School, sparking debate over his dual role as basketball coach and academic facilitator.
Quick Takes
- Mike Rice hired as Linden High School boys basketball coach with $9,503 stipend
- Additional $150,000 contract for new academic facilitation role raises eyebrows
- Controversy surrounds hiring decision amid budget cuts and questionable qualifications
- Supporters cite improved student-athlete engagement and team performance
- Critics question transparency and legitimacy of the new position
Controversial Return to Coaching
Mike Rice, the former Rutgers University basketball coach fired in 2013 for player abuse, has made a contentious comeback at Linden High School in New Jersey. His appointment as the boys’ basketball coach comes with a standard $9,503 stipend, but it’s his additional role that’s raising eyebrows across the state. Rice has been awarded a newly created position as “facilitator of athletic academic assistance/community resources” with a hefty $150,000 contract, bringing his total compensation to nearly $160,000.
The decision to hire Rice has ignited a firestorm of debate, particularly in light of recent budget cuts within the school district. Critics argue that the creation of this new position appears to be a thinly veiled attempt to provide Rice with additional compensation beyond his coaching duties. The salary for this role surpasses that of vice principals in the district, further fueling concerns about the allocation of resources and the priorities of the school board.
Questionable Qualifications and Transparency
Questions have been raised about the transparency of the hiring process and the qualifications required for Rice’s new position. The Linden Board of Education and Superintendent have remained tight-lipped, declining interview requests from local media. However, a district spokesperson defended the hiring, stating that Rice’s role is vital for student success and community engagement.
“My opinion is that the employment of this individual as a coach is not uncommon, but his subsequent employment to a full-time position represents a sharp departure from normal practice,” said Marc Gaswirth, a former school administrator.
The lack of clarity surrounding the position’s requirements and the absence of a competitive hiring process have only added to the controversy. Critics suggest that the full-time position may be a deviation from normal hiring practices, potentially tailored to accommodate Rice’s qualifications and justify his high salary.
Positive Impact on Student-Athletes
Despite the controversy, supporters of Rice’s appointment point to early signs of success both on and off the court. The Linden boys basketball team has shown marked improvement under Rice’s leadership, boasting a 9-5 record at the time of reporting. More significantly, Rice’s efforts in his academic role have reportedly led to a 20% increase in student-athletes engaging with NCAA programs.
“Mike Rice was selected for his extensive experience at the collegiate level, where he developed a reputation for fostering competitive teams and preparing players for NCAA programs,” said Michael Wattkis, a spokesperson for the Linden Board of Education.
Proponents argue that Rice’s collegiate experience uniquely qualifies him to guide student-athletes through the complex process of NCAA compliance, academic oversight, and college recruitment. They claim that his dual role as coach and academic facilitator allows for a more holistic approach to student-athlete development, potentially increasing opportunities for Linden’s youth.
Balancing Act: Athletics and Academics
The controversy surrounding Rice’s appointment highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between athletic success and academic priorities in high school sports programs. While Linden’s investment in its athletic programs, including a 4.2% increase in funding for the 2024-25 school year, may be seen as a commitment to student development, it also raises questions about resource allocation in a time of budget constraints.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Linden School District faces the challenge of justifying its decision to the community and demonstrating that Rice’s dual role truly serves the best interests of its students. The coming months will likely reveal whether this controversial appointment will yield the promised benefits or further fuel the debate over priorities in public education.
Sources:
- https://rutgers.forums.rivals.com/threads/ot-a-once-disgraced-coach-is-making-160k-at-a-n-j-school-but-is-it-just-to-win-games.288456/
- https://www.nj.com/union/2025/01/a-once-disgraced-coach-is-making-160k-at-a-nj-school-but-is-it-just-to-win-games.html
- https://nypost.com/2025/01/28/sports/mike-rice-making-160k-in-controversial-high-school-job/