Talking or not to the coach during a game

[rainmaker]

Someone above said, you might say, "We owe you one." I'd NEVER use that wording. NEVER. That doesn't mean you can't admit you goofed. I have had a lot of trouble in this area and this is how I'm working on getting better.

a) Try not to stop the play to talk, but it might be necessary upon rare occasion.

b) Look the coach in the eye, and respond politely. When the response required is not polite, you are getting close to needing to T.

c) Always let the coach know you are listening. A simple "I hear you coach" can work wonders. The other think I"ve done a lot that works well with almost any player, fan or coach, is a simple "Thank you." after their comments. I can't understand why this works, but it really does. I say it very dryly, and very neutrally. And they just quit complaining. At least for the moment.

d) Don't discuss. You listen, respond, allow the possibility of one more listen-respond, and then get away. You've both got other things that need to be attended to.

e) Memorize about 10 good sentences or phrases that will be generally useful, and don't ad lib. In a high octane situation, adlibbing is a great way to put yourself way out on a very high, very flimsy branch.

She got her right across the arm, coach.
Coach, let's talk over here by your bench.
She didn't have legal guarding position, or She had legal guarding position.
I can show you that rule in the book after the game.
There was no contact.
I had a good angle on that one, coach.
I hear you coach.
I'm watching it, coach, or I'll watch out for it, coach.
Remember your box, coach.

And the always useful when needed:

That's enough, coach (use in conjunction with the stop sign).

Coach management is the most important part of your game, and you should spend a lot of effort and attention to making it really masterful. Keep working. It does get better with practice.