COACH

Vignettes:

Coach shouts at a team of 7-year-olds, “If you're the best players at this age level, we should expect years of failure!”

Coach blames a nine year old he’s never met for being tagged out - after telling him to steal the base.

Coach admonishes an eleven-year-old for being ‘soft’, and not training hard enough to live up to her potential.

Coach shrieks at his 7th grade team to dominate their opponent - even though the team is winning by 38 points.

Coach berates a pre-teen referee for making the wrong call. Nine times in one quarter.

Opposing coach curses and shouts at his young players for dropping a ball and missing a pass.

Coachable moments. All.

We’ve witnessed them. Engaged in them.

Once, I was so frustrated with a fellow coach at a regional competition, I confronted her in the cafeteria –  causing both kids and adults to stack their trays and run for cover (I am still apologizing for that!)

Coaching can be a tough, thankless job.

Still, most coaches care. They are passionate about their sport or club, and enjoy working with kids. Committed, energetic, and hard-working, they comp tons of hours; learning, teaching, and competing.

Dealing with parents who drop off their kids. And bolt.

Or stick around. And challenge.

Occasionally, a coach transcends.

Is truly teacher.

Mentor.

Guardian of self-esteem.

Builder of confidence. And character.

            A guide who expertly leads a team on a journey that brings delight, wisdom, skill and

            growth.

            A leader who, unconcerned with wins and losses, focuses on life lessons that will have an
impact far beyond any competitive season.

           This kind of coach isn’t interested in accolades or thanks.

His or her mission?  

To educate, inspire, and make a difference.

My kids have been blessed to work with, and learn from such a coach. He will soon be publicly cited by a number of graduating seniors as the teacher who most profoundly and positively impacted their young lives.

The moment my youngest child graduates from high school, I'm going to suggest that he ditch sports and teaching, and make a run for Congress so he can profoundly impact the seniors (and underclassmen) running our government.

But for now, I'll just gratefully say, "Congrats, coach. Your mission? Accomplished."

QUING Hereby Decrees:   Uniforms, equipment, travel fees: $1500.  A coach who transcends: priceless.