The Iowa State University Athletic Council discussed their concerns for the Cydlines program at a meeting yesterday afternoon.

Members of the council have apparently received concerns from faculty about alcohol being served at university endorsements. Athletic Director Gene Smith assured the council that the university has no liability with Cydlines.

“What we have set up with Cydlines is a private program,” Smith said. “Cydlines is a controlled setting, which contains a menu much greater than just alcohol.”

The council discussed the relationship with Cydlines and the university’s policy to create a drug- and alcohol-free workplace for faculty. The council worked on the policy three years ago.

“We are encouraging our fans to come and tailgate with other clientele rather than just out of the back of their cars,” Smith said. “What we created outside our stadium services a mature market, not the market everyone assumes is the case. Cydlines provide the service our adult customers deserve.”

Plans on replacing retired baseball coach Bobby Randall were also discussed at the meeting.

According to Smith, a six-person committee will be formed this month in search of a replacement. A 30-day advertisement will be placed for the head coach position which Smith hopes to fill by December.

“Randall was a great coach and a great teacher,” Smith added. “With the success we’ve had in our program, we should be able to find a very qualified replacement. Assistant Coach Lyle Smith will be a great candidate for the position.”

ISU President Martin Jischke also attended the meeting. Jischke shared his goals for athletics with the council as well as his feelings as to how the year has begun.

“I am feeling good about all of our student athletes, our programs and our facilities,” Jischke said. “The new cross country course is excellent and our football team already has a better record than last year.”

Jischke also commented on the developments within the Big 12. The conference will begin competition on July 21 of next year.

“The Big 12 will bring along some very attractive TV contracts and may possibly add a football playoff to the conference,” Jischke said. “The basketball tournament will remain in Kansas City for two additional years.”

Jischke commended the committee for making it through what he labeled a “difficult year.” He hopes to settle things down in the future.

Both Jischke and Smith said they were pleased with Head Football Coach Dan McCarney and his team’s efforts.

Smith urged fans to come very early on Saturday to avoid problems with parking and construction. Saturday’s game against Iowa is sold out, including 4,000 hillside seats.