One thing I’ve learned over the years is that you Coaches talk to & about each other and visit this forum. So here’s the TOUGHEST assignment yet for you guys & gals!
Coaches face a dilemma about their objectives & we ALL know that society rewards winners. Yet society also looks to sport as a means to help young people try out life, build character, and develop leadership skills. Some Coaches who want to help young people develop physically, psychologically, and socially through sport often find they are evaluated only on their win-loss record – I know, “sucks to be you”. Coaches are also concerned about their job and many have increasing aspirations – maybe collegiate or professional. And, I understand that coaches are conditioned by the organizations for whom they coach to pursue the objective of “winning regardless of the cost” because the rewards for winning are immediate and powerful. Hey, there’s lot’s of styles and reasons. Don’t be shy and NONE are wrong – EXCEPT NOT REPLYING!
I challenge every Coach from each program in South Carolina to come on this board and state their philosophy and maybe a little about WHY. Examples may include the following (or combinations of the following) or anything else. JUST BE HONEST, PLEASE:
1) Strive to win the game is the important objective of the contest.
2) Development of sound character: Helping athletes develop physically and/or psychologically and/or socially – athletes become better athletes and successful adults.
3) Development of friendships and trust. “It’s a social thing”
4) Player Exposure, & PLEASE list how you personally assist with exposing talented players to collegiate or professional objectives.
5) I want to coach at a higher level – goals are great, don’t be shy – It’s a GOOD thing.
6) Other…………………
I don’t believe this question has been posed to all of the coaches in this state and I think the parents of the youth that we entrust with you would like to hear your value structure. You need not identify your school, name or anything personal about yourself – anonymity is good – just want feedback.
& THANK YOU FOR YOUR REPLY!
P.S. If you’re a coach, preface with “COACH” and if you’re a player / parent and want to chime in, state “PLAYER” or “PARENT”. Thank you too!
