Carson-Newman University

Introduction

When Carson-Newman University sought to modernize its athletics management, they faced significant challenges in compliance and communication. They needed an intuitive, comprehensive solution that streamlined data entry, maintained regulatory compliance, and promoted seamless communication across all sports teams.  Ahead of the 23/24 academic year, Carson-Newman turned to Spry, aiming to simplify their complex processes and increase software utilization among coaches and staff.

Challenges Before Spry

Before Spry, the university’s coaches found managing compliance tasks and reporting overwhelming. Suzanne Strudwick, Associate AD for Compliance, highlighted that “only 30% of our coaches used the previous system due to its complexity.” The reliance on paper calendars and printouts meant that crucial compliance documentation, like CARA (Countable Athletically Related Activities) logs, was time-consuming and difficult to track. Suzanne added, “We struggled to report activities and stay within NCAA bylaws accurately.”

This lack of engagement with their previous software created inefficiencies and left compliance at risk. Additionally, communication was disjointed across teams, with each sport adopting different messaging apps, resulting in critical information getting lost in translation.

Enter Spry – The Solution

Spry addressed Carson-Newman’s challenges head-on with a suite of tailored features. The platform’s streamlined CARA log submission and approval system allowed coaches to efficiently document activities, resulting in 100% utilization—a significant improvement from their previous 30%. Suzanne explained, “Spry’s system brought all our reporting, communication, and compliance needs into one place. Now, I receive accurate, timely logs each week, enhancing our overall compliance.”

The standout feature, Spry’s communication platform, revolutionized team interactions by centralizing all messaging in a unified system. “With Spry, we finally have a tool that coaches and student-athletes actually use to stay informed,” said Suzanne. This comprehensive platform allowed the athletics department to broadcast critical updates, ensuring everyone remained aligned and informed.

A Seamless Onboarding Experience

Switching platforms can be daunting, but Spry made the transition effortless. Guided by their account manager, Alec, Carson-Newman’s team completed their migration within two weeks. Suzanne shared, “Alec was exceptional—he was responsive and patient, guiding our administrators and coaches through each step.” The thorough training sessions and Spry’s accessible knowledge center gave the entire staff the confidence to maximize the platform’s functionality.

User-Friendly Interface

Spry’s intuitive design enabled coaches to adopt new processes without hesitation, even those typically resistant to technology. Suzanne noted, “Navigating Spry has been a positive experience; even coaches unfamiliar with tech have adapted well.” The easy-to-use interface meant Carson-Newman could focus on improving their operations rather than troubleshooting tech issues.

Why Carson-Newman Chose Spry

For Carson-Newman, choosing Spry came down to functionality and cost-effectiveness. With their previous software’s usage at only 30% and rising costs on the horizon, Spry provided a valuable alternative. “We needed a product that combined compliance, communication, and administration seamlessly—and Spry was the only one that checked all those boxes,” shared Suzanne.

Results and Reflections

Since implementing Spry, Carson-Newman has experienced measurable improvements across various areas, from more efficient CARA reporting to enhanced communication with coaches and student-athletes. “Spry has saved us so much time—we wouldn’t go back to another system,” said Suzanne. The athletics department has observed greater cohesion and productivity, with Spry empowering their daily activities.

Reflecting on their journey, Suzanne concluded, “Spry has given our department a sense of cohesion and efficiency we lacked before. We feel confident in our compliance, communication, and operations, and we’re excited to further leverage its capabilities.”

Moving Forward

Looking ahead, Carson-Newman aims to expand Spry’s use across recruiting processes, building on its initial successes. As Suzanne put it, “Spry makes us feel like their only customer. They’ve gone above and beyond, and we’re thrilled with the impact it’s had on our department.” With Spry, Carson-Newman has found a lasting solution that supports their present needs and future ambitions.