Musical Coaches ...

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by JRutledge

If you never tell us, then not my issue ... If you want all the privileges, you better be there when the game starts.

I can certainly see your point, but what if you are told in advance that the head coach will be late due to a flat tire, traffic, or is in the locker room vomiting, or needs some sugar to avoid insulin shock (and has to test his blood), and may not be available until ten, or fifteen, minutes after the posted starting time? You've also been informed that the delayed head coach is willing to start the game on time if his assistant can be a "temporary" head coach, and that opposing head coach agrees?

When all involved are informed there are three choices for the referee to chose from: Delay the start of the game. Start the game with the assistant coach as the head coach and don't allow the switch when the real head coach is available. Start the game with the assistant coach as the head coach and allow the switch when the real head coach is available.

With purpose and intent, as well as sportsmanship, in mind, I'm going with the third option. Is the switch-coached team really gaining an illegal advantage, especially when the opposing coach is informed and agrees? What unsporting advantage is gained?