HS basketball coach accused of beating players.

Normally, I wouldn't write two posts in the same day.  I wouldn't risk overkill, but this is very important.  Marlon Dorsey, a high school basketball coach in Jackson, Miss. has recently been accused of beating his players.  Video from one of the alleged beatings is available through multiple sources online.  Although I have seen it, I will not post it on this site.  Any abuse or alleged abuse of children will never be shown here - even to make a positive point. 

Statements made by Dorsey indicate that he thought he was doing the right thing.  "I took it upon myself to save these young men from the destruction of self and what society has accepted and become silent to the issues our students are facing on a daily basis.  I am deeply remorseful for my actions to help our students."  Dorsey is being sued by three of his students for alleged "whippings" related to a variety of infractions.  He even sent a letter to parents telling them he punished their children for reasons ranging from disrespecting teachers to being late for class.

If Dorsey did indeed use corporal punishment on his athletes, then he is completely out of line and unworthy of coaching kids.  Opinions vary about the use of corporal punishment in the home.  Some parents use it while others do not.  No matter what your stance is regarding corporal punishment, most parents reserve the decision on its use solely for themselves.  Coaches, teachers, and others who work with children are fully aware that we are not to put our hands on children.

We complain about those who act out.  We talk about how parents should gain some control over their unruly children.  We sometimes feel a greater responsibility to children who may not have both parents at home - especially fathers.  Let me be perfectly clear.  We can be the best coaches and role models on the face of the earth, but the child is not ours.  Coaches are partners with parents.  We cannot replace them.  It is so very important that we all stay in our roles.         

Dorsey stepped out of his role and his students are not the better for it.  Be the best coach you can be and let everyone else do their own jobs.  Until next time...

Be a Good Sport!

-Sol