Abstract
The management of collegiate athletic events increasingly demands systematic approaches to risk identification, assessment, and mitigation, yet risk management education within athletics remains inconsistent. As a result, athletic directors, coaches, and facility managers frequently lack the formal preparation necessary to design and implement effective risk management policies, thereby exposing institutions to operational disruption and legal liability. Severe weather events, particularly lightning storms, underscore the importance of integrating legal principles such as duty of care, premises liability, and foreseeability into institutional planning. This case study, based on a real-life incident, shows that athletic administrators, often with limited formal training in risk management, must protect spectators by identifying legal risks, anticipating potential hazards, and actively involving relevant stakeholders in planning and implementing safety measures. By applying risk management plans consistently, athletic departments can improve event safety and reduce legal exposure. The case highlights practical lessons for students on the importance of proactive planning, collaboration, and developing risk management skills in real-world athletic settings.
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