Last week Tim Keown wrote an article on ESPN.com called, “The Case Against Cursing Coaches.” It was a very interesting article.
I realize there are coaches who are opposed to foul language. I respect that. You can be a very effective and successful coach without cursing. But that alone doesn’t make the use of foul language inherently wrong.
In my opinion, the key to being a successful coach is to be authentic. You have to be true to yourself. If the ‘F’ word isn’t a part of your normal vocabulary, then trying to use it when you coach will seem forced and not even remotely genuine. However, if colorful language better suits your personality, then use it appropriately.
There are a variety of colorful words in our vocabulary, but the ‘F’ word has always received the most attention, so I will use that in this example.
There are 2 things to keep in mind in regards to foul language in coaching:
1) If you use it all of the time it loses impact. If you want your words to pack a punch then ration out the ‘F’ bombs. Less is more.
2) What you say is not near as important as how your say it. Your intent is everything. There is a difference between calling a player a “MF’er” and telling a kid he needs to start playing “F’ing” defense. Personally, I have never advocated the first, but I have absolutely no problem with the latter (assuming you are dealing with high school age and above).
As long as you care about your players and do everything in your power to help them develop as players and as people – I believe you have the right to use whatever language suits your personality and style. You have the right to be authentic.
“To each their own.”
I know this topic will create quite a bit of emotion on both sides of the issue. I would love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to email me privately at Alan@StrongerTeam.com or share your thoughts publicly through www.Twitter.com/AlanStein (put @AlanStein in your Tweet) or post comments at www.Facebook.com/StrongerTeam.
I value your input,
Alan Stein
www.StrongerTeam.com
PS: I have a new video coming soon that will finally answer this question:
Are NBA players born… or are they made?
You will not want to miss this!
Visit www.YouTube.com/StrongerTeamDotCom later this week!