|
thick skin
I've been on both sides of the coin too. Let me be the first to say though, coaching has definitely been a much easier "job" than being an umpire. When it comes to coaching everyone who knows me knows it is something I'm most passionate about. I have no children (which makes me unbiased of players) of my own yet but all I want is to see kids learn a few lessons on and off the field. I
Being an umpire however, and moreover being a FEMALE umpire, I catch grief each time I walk onto the field. I played on a nationally ranked team when I was a youth and I take great pride in doing my best when I step onto the field as an official. I know the rules, I hustle, I always am in good position to see each of my calls.
I have no doubt in my mind that I would not catch 1/2 of the grief I do if I was a man.
I considered myself thick skinned before I began umpiring. Sometimes the insults get through but most of the time they slide right off.
As for being a coach and taking the flak...you just need to remind folks that you're in control. Sometimes you have to be a hardass rather than trying to please everyone. That won't happen-ever.
As long as you can go to bed at night feeling that you're doing what's best for the kids and not lose sight of that then you should be fine.
|