Please Help Me Define "Head Coach"

Coach Pauley:

I was a high school coach for about 10 years, seven of them in Texas, where it's another religion. I read your story and I think the definition of what a head coach *is* has been aptly described by others.

I would like to offer what I think I would help solve some of the problems in the future, since it seems things have gotten out of hand already, then maybe a suggestion or two about how to make things work this year.

First, much of what has happened could have been ironed out in the off-season in meetings between you and your assistants. At these meetings, the head coach should outline each staff member's responsibilities and lay out a clear chain of command. It's at these meetings that issues about *how* the special teams are going to be setup, who is going to run them, etc., are decided. It's at these meetings that conflicts about these things are all settled so that when the first day of practice comes, everyone knows what to expect from the other staff members. This smoothness of operation is picked up by the kids - well-organized coaching staffs always have a positive impact on their players. You may find that a potential assistant just isn't going to "fit" in with your style of coaching and it's better to suggest that he work with someone else before the season even gets started, because chaos always leaves the kids wondering if the "coaches know what they're doing." A specific point re: special teams - assign the special teams coach to have them ready a down before they're needed. Review frequently each of the teams - kickoff, punt, etc., so that the kids go out to their respective positions automatically and the subs know who they replace.

What can you do to patch things up, especially since the two of you are working together every day? You could be hard nosed and hold a grudge, but I personally think it would be better to be a good Christian and sit down and talk with the other guy, get all of the differences on the table, and discuss them like men. Don't forget: it's the kids whose season is at stake. A peace offering may surprise you with a pleasant ending.

Try not to get caught up in having a "Hall of Fame" mentality about this. There are very few Bear Bryants in this world and life's too short to be miserable doing something that's often volunteer work. Do what you can to make it enjoyable.

Best regards,
Coach Frank