Respect is a simple word no? It mean so much, and have so many different ways of being given to different people. It is also one of the most important words in the game today. It is too bad that respect, is so often being ignored and not given.
Respect is earned, not simply given. The game has been around longer than any of us, and it has earned its respect through decades of examples. The game has earned the respect it is due.
Player today do not respect the game enough. All the hit from behind, the hit to the head, and cheap shot to injure the opponent. It is the sign of disrespect.
Parent do not respect the game enough too. The right thing are not taught to the player at home. The parent so focused on winning games, and beating little bobby on the other team that they do not focus on the most important things.
Coaches do not respect the game though in many case as well. Send player out to fight or give dirty hit. Playing the favorite game with the players instead of playing the hard work game.
Fans do not respect the game today either. It is disgusting to see the idiot fan get in the fight with player, coach or referee. Are you really that stupid?
This do not mean all people have no respect, but it mean there are far too many in the game today. It mean that these people are infecting the game with their disease.
I know sometime we do not like to say thing to people because we do not feel it is our place to do so, or we do not want to embarrass someone, or we do not want a confrontation. Especially in a public place.
I challenge you. The next time you see the disrespectful person in any capacity, pull them aside, and tell them. Do not simply let it go. Tell them how wrong the behavior is, and maybe you can help start to kill the infection.
The only way to fix the problem is what they call behavior modification. That start with teaching right from wrong, and teaching start with communication. If you love the game you teach the game to people. The first lesson should be one about respect.
Coach
