I've been working in college athletics for about 15 years and have built a solid reputation in the industry, even earning nominations for awards from my peers. Despite my efforts to network and maintain relationships with coaches, I've struggled to advance my career. Most of the coaches I've connected with either retire or remain in assistant roles, which has limited my opportunities. Recently, a coach I thought I had a strong relationship with accepted a head coaching position at an FCS program. I congratulated him and offered my assistance, but he ended up laying off the entire staff except for one position—the one I was interested in. When I asked why he kept that person, he mentioned he didn't touch that department, which left me puzzled. This situation is particularly frustrating because this FCS program is in the same state where my wife and daughter currently live. I was laid off 19 months ago and had to take a job far away, so I was eager to return to my family. Now, I've learned that a colleague is looking for a new assistant because his previous one left to work for the head coach at this FCS school. I had no idea this position was open, and the coach never reached out to me about it. I've heard he even contacted Big Ten schools for hiring recommendations. I'm at a loss. I know I'm qualified for the job, and the location is perfect for my family. I thought I had a good relationship with this coach, but now I'm questioning everything. Should I reach out to him and ask why he chose someone less experienced over me? I don't feel entitled to the position, but it hurts to know I wasn't considered, especially when he knew how much this job meant to me and my family. I'm really struggling with whether or not to ask him directly.