"Bless Your Heart"

There's a saying that "most people listen not to hear but to respond." Sometimes we struggle to find the right response.

The opposing team was dominating, leading by thirty and continuing to press. The trailing coach took a timeout and instructed his team to throw the ball in to the other team after each score. Opponents scored ten quick points. The coach took another timeout and during the silence, yelled to the other coach, "Let me know when it's enough."

Most coaches prefer more subtlety. "Bless your heart," is a time worn, versatile southern expression. Want to thank someone for their generosity and courtesy, "Bless your heart." Want to return fire for selfishness and discourtesy, "Bless your heart."

Part of coaches' responsibility is teaching sportsmanship including respect for officials, opposing coaches and players, teammates, and the game. 

It only takes a second to choose kindness over bitterness or vindictiveness. It takes a second to comfort a player instead of piling on. Choose beauty over ugliness. It takes a moment to turn "teachable moments" into lifelong lessons. 

When opponents are trash talking you, you've got "bless your heart." They've got a possible yellow card. 

Ask AI (from ChatGPT): Teaching sportsmanship and encouraging kindness, dignity, and decency are crucial for fostering a positive team environment. Here are five examples you can use to coach your team on these values:

1. Respect Opponents and Officials:

   • Example: Before and after games, encourage your players to shake hands with opponents and thank referees. Emphasize that everyone involved is working hard and deserves respect, regardless of the outcome. This helps build mutual respect and shows that sportsmanship extends beyond just your team.

2. Celebrate Team Successes, Not Just Individual Achievements:

   • Example: When a player scores a goal or makes a significant play, encourage the team to celebrate collectively rather than focusing solely on the individual. This could be through group high-fives or team cheers. Highlight how acknowledging each other’s contributions fosters a supportive and unified team spirit.

3. Handle Defeat with Grace:

   • Example: After a tough loss, guide your players to reflect on the game with a positive mindset. Encourage them to congratulate the winning team and discuss what can be learned from the experience. Use losses as opportunities to demonstrate resilience and a constructive attitude.

4. Support Each Other During Tough Times:

   • Example: If a player is struggling with their performance or facing personal challenges, promote an environment where teammates offer encouragement and support rather than criticism. Show how being a good teammate involves lifting others up and providing a helping hand.

5. Demonstrate Integrity and Fair Play:

• Example: Emphasize the importance of playing by the rules and avoiding unsportsmanlike behavior, such as cheating or taunting. Illustrate how adhering to the rules and playing fairly reflects strong character and respect for the game and opponents.

 Lagniappe. Mental toughness (seems inefficient to me). 

Lagniappe 2. Some have criticized Melrose for being "too simple." Choose to think of your self as Hemingway, beauty through simplicity and directness. 

Day 1 of practice.

The last day of practice. pic.twitter.com/tfAHfuliT9

— Jim Shapiro (@jimshapiro) August 17, 2024