An Open Letter to Coaches

January 9, 2008

by Jim Charles

This website - unlike most forms of local media that cover sports - contains both "news" and "commentary."  And often, the two elements appear within the same article.  There is an implicit reliance, therefore, placed on the reader's ability to distinguish between the two.

Regarding "commentary" (or, "opinions", if you will), these are not offered as fact.  They are offered as the considered beliefs of the writer only.  The reader is welcomed to agree, disagree or not take into account at all such sections of articles.  The commentary is submitted with a view to stimulate thought, although not necessarily to encourage agreement with the writer.

It is understood by me, and should be understood by every visitor to this site, that being a high school basketball coach carries with it certain hardships and sacrifices.  Those who coach our student-athletes deserve our respect for their dedication and devotion to their calling.  However, many other professions require just as much (and even greater) sacrifice.  I hold the belief that it is not disrespectful, insulting or degrading to any coach when their strategies and game decisions are questioned in articles appearing on this website.  Further, if a coach nevertheless feels disrespected, insulted or degraded by any material on this site, then he or she doesn't "get it."  DelawareGirlsBasketball.com (and by association, myself) mean no harm to anyone -- coach, player, parent, official, AD, or school administrator.  There is a will to be positive and upbeat about this great sport, but there is a similarly strong commitment to tell things like they are (or appear to be to the writer's perception).

What is asked of coaches who frequent the site:

• Understand that if a question or two is raised regarding your coaching, there is no hostility or ill-will attached to the query.  It is simply a question.

• Know that, if you choose to, you may offer your own explanation or rebuttal to issues raised on this site regarding your coaching or your team.  There are two outlets available:  Email DelGirlsHoops@aol.com or use the Message Board.  Either way, your response will be presented "as is" and unedited.  We'll even let you have the last word!

• Lastly, if anything about you or your team posted here upsets you too much, "change the channel"!  In other words, don't visit the site.  Some people simply have a low threshold for feeling offended.  While offense is never intended here, if you feel offended, perhaps it is best that you stay out of the site, with all due respect.

From the inception of this website, it was hoped that such a disclaimer page as this one would never be needed.  It is sincerely hoped that every visitor here likes or appreciates the site on some level.  It is hoped that each visitor takes something new away from the site each time they drop in.  As for coaches, they are especially welcome here.  Their unique insight -- and even active participation -- would contribute so much to the effort here.  And, as that effort is centered around the promotion of their chosen sport, their teams, and their individual student-athletes, every coach should see this site as a adjunct to what they, themselves, are working toward. 

Jim Charles