Instead of lacing up sneakers, they straighten a tie. Rather than taking passes, they are drawing up plays. Although hidden behind the incredible youthful performances of their players, the coaches of our sports play a vital role in the system. Without quality coaches, there is no one to develop the talent of tomorrow or to keep them playing at the high levels elite sport demands. Coaches work tirelessly to prepare their athletes and teams all with the hope that the uniforms coming out of the locker room will be ready to perform. Now, who knows anxiety better than the pre-game coach? When their investment of time and energy, even their livelihood, is in the hands of a bunch of kids chasing a ball?
There's no way to prepare for all of the situations a coach will face during a season. Largely without formal training or certification programs, many American coaches are forced to "learn as they go". Reflecting on some tough situations that well-known coaches have faced... what would you do?
Rick Pitino - Louisville Cardinals
Situation: G Kevin Ware has just landed awkwardly and suffered a severe leg injury in front of your bench during an incredibly important game. (If you can stomach the video, watch Coach Pitino's reactions throughout the injury timeout). What would you do?
Eric Murdoch - Rutgers (Director of Player Development)
Situation: Witnessing countless hours of verbal and physical abuse of players during practices by the head coach (Source). The coach is throwing balls, shoving, and verbally belittling even young attendees to the summer basketball camp. What would you do?
Situation: Taking over a losing team mid-way through a shortened NHL season is no easy task. Add to that the pressures of a hockey-crazed city and zero NHL coaching experience. This is the task assigned to Ron Rolston as he tries to salvage a season, gain the trust of his new (struggling) team, and also make a name for himself. Thrown into the "fire", what would you do?
Coach Eric Taylor - (former) Head Coach - Dillon Panthers, East Dillon Lions. Quarterback Coach - TMU Bobcats. ... Currently coaching somewhere in Philadelphia...?
Situation: High expectations in a small Texas town, shady boosters, large egos, crushing injuries to star players, daughter dating the quarterback, rebuilding a losing program to state champions in a single season, etc. Eric Taylor is a coach's coach... some one we can all learn from. (If you don't get the reference please learn about the magic of Coach Taylor.) "Clear eyes, full heats... CAN'T LOSE!"
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