South Dakota State Women's Basketball Coach Salary
Coaching basketball is an intensely competitive and high-pressure job, regardless of the level one coaches at. At the NCAA Division I level, where the stakes are higher, and the competition is more intense, coaches are expected to deliver results on multiple fronts, including developing talent, competing at a high level, and keeping their players academically eligible. It’s a job that comes with a lot of responsibility, and one that requires significant experience and expertise.
The State of Women’s Basketball in South Dakota
South Dakota has a strong tradition of women’s basketball, with top-tier programs like the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, and Augustana University leading the way. Women’s basketball has a significant following in the state, with fans filling up gyms to cheer on their favorite teams. This popularity also translates into significant resources being dedicated to coaching staff, players, and infrastructure.
South Dakota State Women’s Basketball Coach Salary: 2021
The head coach of South Dakota State University’s women’s basketball team is Aaron Johnston, who has been in this role since 2000. Johnston is a local of Watertown, South Dakota, and graduated from the University of South Dakota with a degree in Education. As the head coach of the women’s basketball team, Johnston is responsible for leading the team and ensuring that the players are performing to their best potential.
The salary of a women’s basketball coach at the NCAA Division I level is determined by several factors, including the competitiveness of the program, the success of the team, and the experience and expertise of the coach. At South Dakota State University, the women’s basketball coach’s salary is determined by the athletic department and is based on the salary structure set by the University.
As of 2021, the South Dakota State University women’s basketball coach, Aaron Johnston, earns a base salary of $220,000 annually, making him one of the highest-paid state employees in South Dakota. In addition to his base salary, Johnston is also eligible for performance bonuses, which are earned based on the team's success on the court, including conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances.
Other Factors That Affect a Coach’s Salary
The salaries of coaches at the NCAA Division I level are also affected by other factors, including their experience and expertise, the competitiveness of the program, and the location of the university. The size of the university, the resources it has available, and the overall market demand for coaches are also factors that can influence a coach’s salary.
At South Dakota State University, the athletic department also provides Johnston with additional benefits, including healthcare benefits, retirement plans, and the use of a car. These benefits are designed to supplement his base salary and provide him with additional job security and financial stability.
Conclusion
Coaching a women’s basketball team at the NCAA Division I level is a demanding and competitive job that requires significant experience and expertise. The salary of a women’s basketball coach at South Dakota State University is determined by the athletic department and is based on several factors, including the competitiveness of the program and the coach’s experience and expertise. In addition to his base salary, the women’s basketball coach at South Dakota State University is also eligible for performance bonuses, which are earned based on the team's success on the court.
As one of the highest-paid state employees in South Dakota, Aaron Johnston earns a base salary of $220,000 annually, making him one of the most successful women’s basketball coaches in the state.