VYPE Pregame -- Kudos to Coaches by Matt Malatesta

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What's Up Coach?

By Matt Malatesta

I love high school coaches. From volleyball and football to track and basketball, I love them all. And you should too.

Sure they get blamed for making a bad call or not starting Johnny over Jimmy, but no one sees inside athletic programs like I do. No one -- so listen up.

I'm here to tell you that high school coaches care about your kids. A lot of times, they are the only ones who care and it's becoming a disturbing trend that needs changing.

I am witnessing athletes virtually being "taken-in" and "cared for" by high school coaches across the city. I have seen coaches contact local food banks to feed some of their athletes because there is no food at home. Have you seen kids cramping and run out of gas during games when they look like they are in the shape of their lives? It's called starvation and malnourishment, and it is everywhere.

Thousands of athletes are the care-givers for the younger siblings, but who is taking care of them? Who is making sure they are being fed, going to class, keeping up with their grades, being transported and have shelter? You got it, high school coaches. I'm the first to say thank you to the coaches who are stepping up and going above and beyond the call of duty.

Now on the flip side. In suburban schools where athletic departments have huge budgets and boosters with multi-million dollar houses, coaches are also filling huge needs for kids. In those communities, the most precious currency is TIME and DISCIPLINE.

Parents are racing between social engagements and business trips, and it's tough to coach a Spoiled Brat, who's birthday gift may equal the amount of their coach's yearly stipend. It sounds funny, but just ask a high school coach. They are often the only disciplinarian your athlete might fear. Coaches also spend countless hours counseling and teaching these high schoolers who "know it all," already.

Now let me slow the roll here a little. Of course there are great parents out there and there are likely some bad coaches, but just remember the next time you are screaming from the sideline or downing a coach in the barbershop what they are doing for kids across Houston.

They certainly aren't motivated by money and I'm here to tell you that they are disturbed by what they are seeing as well.

See You at the Games,

Matt Malatesta

matt@ourfieldhouse.com