A statement like that conjures up all kinds of ideas and conditions. What comes to mind for a lot of folks is their interpretation of what that LINE is. And embracing that mindset is usually a spectrum of scenarios that’s very dynamic.
For example, do any of these personality traits come to mind:
patronage, cronyism, incompetent, belligerent, stubborn, rude, selfish, arrogant, indignant, gruffness, single-minded, … oh and let’s toss in the ole … BO just for good measure.
If I’ve missed anything, by all means add your ideas.
But you know, people aren’t born with these traits, nor do they stay up nights practicing how to develop them either. People are conditioned by the environment that they’re in more than some people would like to admit. It’s just easier to slap a sign on somebody and walk away and say that’s that. However, under no circumstances am I accepting any of behavior mentioned heretofore.
Coaches have a responsibility that imprints itself long before he/she gets to the field, classroom, locker, training room, and so forth. It’s called a code of ethics. ANY and EVERY coach who accepts the title is governed by these protocols. And regardless of the sport, these protocols are pretty basic and don’t require a lot in the ole brain bucket to comprehend. A code of ethics first outlines the competency of personal behavior and interaction with people who depend upon the coach(s) for personal qualities like honesty, balance, maturity and a lot of other stuff you and I are raised to respect and admire. A solid mirror of good citizenship and leadership that his/her charges can admire and emulate. After that, the sports aspect just falls in place regardless of the knowledge base – speculative and operative. I seen tons of coaches who were short on the sport specific talents, but their personal behavior and interaction with everyone promoted an atmosphere of respect and cooperation that was really amazing to witness.
I’ve been part of and have conducted clinics of all kinds – pitching specific, and I have the highest respect and admiration for the coach(s) that introduce a specialist like me by first admitting the reasons why I was invited in the first place. These coach(s) felt their charges would be much better served by myself and others – rather than trying to play the music themselves.
On the other hand, some adults are subject to peer pressures from other adults. Membership in fraternal organizations, booster clubs, employer/employee relationships can add expectations to an already tough sell… and win –lose-or draw by people outside of ones control (you) can make this relationship a real nightmare. Adults are judged entirely different than young people. The adult margin for error is less forgiving than yours. Add to this the repeated label of “not having a winner” around you as an adult, does nothing for one’s self esteem. Adults also have a mean streak to them that can perpetuate a sense of “getting up” by “getting down” on some on else. It’s like watching a small chicken being pecked to death by a group of larger, stronger chickens.
So, a lot of the actions that you see by an adult can be a knee-jerk reaction that preceded your involvement with the team. And before you jump the gun and see the “jerk” first, remember how tough it may be for this adult who’s calling himself/herself your coach. There are however obvious examples of the individual(s) that are a poster child for “putts-of-the-year.” And if you think these people are a real work of art while playing ball…just wait till you’re in the job market and one of these bright-lights says…” Wow … do you believe this… I just got promoted to area manager. Cool … you’re now working for me… isn’t that great!!”
Coach B.
but only got to pitch in 2 games :? )