Those who coach, coach

There’s an adage that proclaims, “those that can, do; those that can’t, teach.”

I claim poppycock. With the start of fall just around the corner, a new season of school sports is upon us and with it, the complaining from parents not happy with how they feel their child is being treated on this team or that. To be honest, to that is human nature. To want to protect your child when you feel they aren’t being treated correctly is a natural instinct. But here’s the thing, it’s almost never done intentionally by a coach (or teacher) and if you don’t think these educators have your child’s best interest at heart, I think you are sadly mistaken.

Contrary to that maxim, those who coach have done what they are teaching and most did it very well. Whether sports, math, driver’s education, you name it, these people are coaching and teaching because they have a passion for both. Compare what they are paid for their services to how much time they spend with your children and you’ll see the writing on the wall: those who teach make the world 'round.

Having critiques of someone is also a natural, and generally healthy thing. Constructive criticism is also a teaching tool. But just try to remember, sports and other extracurricular activities at schools are meant to promote hard work and fun. Either trust that is happening with your child, or sign up to be a coach.

Thanks for reading and aloha.