A Call to Action: Supporting Our High School Coaches

You made a deep run into playoffs , maybe won your league title , or even overachieved and had a 500 record , collected all the uniforms , completed the banquet and now you're preparing for the summer season , getting the fields ready for all the travel tournaments . Oh wait , campus next week . Did I order enough t-shirts ? Is the weather going to cooperate ?

Meanwhile , you're telling your son or daughter don't worry , as soon as the season is over I'll be able to go to your game or I'll be able to go out back and throw the ball with you . Your wife wants to know if you're still okay to go on vacation in July and don't forget to cut the grass .

You look down at your phone and it's a text from the athletic director asking you to stop by . The office wanted to discuss a complaint from a parent that just came in . Hello and welcome back to the Athlete One Podcast , where we explore the world of sports and delve into the challenges and triumphs of athletes and coaches .

I'm your host , ken Carpenter , and today we're diving into a pressing issue the departure of high school coaches and the importance of support from parents and athletic directors . We'll also explore the invaluable life lessons that coaches provide in their crucial role , so let's jump right in . Next , on the Athlete One Podcast .

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Lots of people would love to be a high school baseball coach and if you sit in the stands , it seems like it's pretty easy , according to the people that are watching the game . But something you need to think about a head coach will make anywhere from $4,000 to $8,000 per year and an assistant will make anywhere from $1,500 to $2,000 per year .

Let that sink in . If you worked at McDonald's and made $16 an hour , you would make $30,000 a year . That's not a knock on fast food workers . My point is high school coaches in season will devote 12 to 14 hours a day to the players and out of season anywhere from 8 to 10 hours a day . Ask any coach . They do not coach for the money .

They coach for the love of the game and the chance to work with young athletes . High school coaches are the backbone of athletic programs , guiding and mentoring young athletes on and off the field .

However , it's disheartening to witness the increasing number of coaches that are walking away or being forced out of their positions due to a lack of support , whether it be from the parents , athletic directors or administration . So what are the reasons behind this troubling trend ?

One significant factor is the erosion of the coach's authority and respect within the high school athletic community . Coaches require support from parents to establish discipline , enforce rules and maintain a positive team culture .

Unfortunately , some parents may undermine the coach's decisions , constantly questioning their strategies and advocating for more playing time for their son . This lack of support can erode the authority , making it challenging to maintain a cohesive and successful team . If an athletic director does not have the coaches back , it can exacerbate the problem .

The athletic director plays a critical role in setting the tone and expectations for coaches within the program . When they fail to provide adequate support , resources or guidance , coaches can feel isolated and unsupported , leading to frustration and , ultimately , their departure from the profession .

When I look back at my time at Buckeye Valley as the head baseball coach . I remember John McGiffen and Carol Evans . I worked for both athletic directors and the one thing they did is they always had my back as a coach . They were always up front and honest with me and they evaluated me at the end of each season .

They supported me and didn't have discussions with parents about playing time . Now let's shift our focus to the invaluable life lesson that coaches provide in their role . Beyond wins and losses , coaches serve as mentors and role models , teaching athletes valuable skills that extend far beyond the playing field .

They instill discipline , perseverance and a strong work ethic in their players . They teach the importance of teamwork , cooperation and respect for others . Coaches foster resilience and the ability to handle adversity , preparing athletes for the challenges they'll face in life .

High school coaches have the unique opportunity to shape character and values , helping young athletes develop into responsible and compassionate individuals . They impart life lessons about integrity , sportsmanship and the importance of setting and achieving goals .

These lessons resonate with athletes long after their playing days are over , guiding them in their personal and professional lives . So how do we address the issue and ensure the continued presence of dedicated and passionate coaches in high school sports . It starts with creating a culture of support and respect within the athletic community .

Parents must recognize the coaches' expertise and trust their decisions , providing constructive feedback rather than criticism . Athletic directors must prioritize the well-being and professional development of their coaches , providing resources , mentorship and supportive environment .

Additionally , fostering open lines of communication among parents , coaches and athletic directors can help address concerns and promote a healthy relationship built on trust and collaboration . Together , we can create an environment where coaches feel valued , supported and motivated to continue their important work .

Coaches aren't perfect , but I can assure you of two things They want to win and they do play favorites , and those favorites are the players that are on time , have a great attitude and give 100% effort every time that they show up for practice or a game .

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Thanks for listening and take care .