Members of the committee conducting the search for a new Kansas University athletic director are to be congratulated for the manner in which they carried out their task.

The six-person committee conducted a more thorough search and investigation of possible candidates than has been the practice of some recent KU search efforts. They also maintained tight security and no information was leaked by those serving on the search committee.

The group was headed by Ray Evans of Kansas City with Ken Audus, Ritch Price, Linda Ellis Sims, Debbie Van Saun and Thomas Ward filling out the committee.

Unfortunately, a last minute breakdown in contract language turned what looked like a winning home run process into a major disappointment. It didn’t have to happen and it shouldn’t have happened. Those engaged in the contract business should have done a better job.

Fortunately, Evans and his associates, although rightfully disappointed, are enthusiastic in their renewed challenge to find a top-flight individual to assume the KU athletic director’s office.

KU is an excellent university and it needs and deserves a superior athletic director. It should be an attractive position to many well-qualified individuals and KU officials cannot afford to mess up when it comes time to negotiate a fair and reasonable contract.