EDITORIAL
I noticed recently that one of the Blogs on DRL Sports has followed suite with forums on So. Cal Hoops, Daily News, and even the California Wrestler in its criticism of coaches and coaching. I'm not surprised about the Blogs over at Daily News. They have a history of sinking into the depths of harse smack talk and unsupported innuendo. Usually by overzealous fans and disgruntled parents who believe their kid should be the star of the team. These miscreants become arm-chair coaches mired in their lack of knowledge.
Coaching, in any sport, is a complicated dynamic that first and foremost involves dedication and sacrifice. Many a coach's spouse and family endures great sacrifice, during the season. Mostly involving the coach's absence from family activities as he/she spends that time with the team. Many an athlete has been saved from him/herself and the pitfalls of growing up because of the coach's dedication, which often includes major lessons in life as well as learning the sport.
Clearly, not all coaches are created equal. Some are better than others. Some are fulltime coaches, while others are stand-ins. None, on the high school level, are in it for the money. When you break down the average stipend a high school coach receives it averages out to around $5.00 an hour. Certainly not a monetary reward commensurate with the challenge.
Prep coaches often find themselves in the roles of mom, dad, best friend and psychologist, as well as coach and teacher. It is a demanding position offering rewards that only each individual coach can identify and reap based on his/her motivation. Along the way, they often require an invisible suit of armor to deflect the smack talk and second guessing of fans and parents who would be better served by getting involved with support programs. Through it all, coaches endure. And participants become better athletes and citizens because of the coach. Think about it the next time you might consider comparing your character to that of the coach.
Your comments are welcome via DRL Interactive or by email to comments@drlsports.com.