When we last broached the topic of running within the sport of basketball the exchange was comparatively similar to discussing water with surfers; initially, the conversation appeared counterintuitive. However, it stands to reason that perhaps this is the exact space in which we should invite the Holy Spirit to guide our understanding. It is not the act of running, but rather the fundamental concept behind the practice of punitive running that must be renounced on all levels of athletics until its efficacy is longitudinally studied by reputable, disinterested third-party organizations.
After a local collegiate men's basketball team delivered a solid loss to National Basketball Association (NBA) legend Gary Payton during his transition into the world of coaching, Seattle Times writer Percy Allen provided an interesting play-by-play of the events.
"It was vintage GP, aka “The Glove,” aka “The Mouth that Roared,” who held a running dialogue that was sometimes mildly R-rated and mostly entertaining with everybody — his players, his assistants, the referees, and a few of the smattering of fans at Royal Brougham Pavilion who came out to see the one-time fiery and bombastic NBA star making his transition to the collegiate sidelines."1
In what profession is profanity-laced instruction acceptable? Ranging from the corporate world to high-school internships, I surely cannot recall one vocation in which such behavior is supported (and encouraged), save competitive sports. Can you?
Is cursing at student-athletes okay?
A. Yep, it happens.
B. Nah, that's completely unacceptable.
C. Hmm, it depends on the situation.
Coach Payton is not alone. GP has demonstrated the passion, wisdom, and dedication of a phenomenal coach. Yet, our chief concern must raise the bar beyond instruction to that which is spiritually affirming. Admittedly, the picture painted by journalist Allen does not speak to the behind-the-scenes interactions that coaches and players often share; the life lessons taught, and undocumented hours of mentorship. Rather, it demonstrates our passive acceptance of the mistreatment of young student-athletes in the name of competition. The means by which victory is accomplished requires an honest assessment; this is where the Christ-centered Team Approach (CCTA) shines.
Once we acknowledge that a challenge exists, a vulnerability in exploration is extended to all stakeholders. In short, the answer is and will always be found in God, through the blood of the Lamb. Inviting the Holy Spirit into our collective spaces is crucial to establishing an environment of equality, shared vulnerability and mutual trust. Unearthing a solution is secondary to simply acknowledging that the current practice warrants a fresh set of eyes. I believe that such space is where the Lord truly works wonders. Let us delight in welcoming Him!
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1 Sonics legend Gary Payton returns to Seattle in new role: coach of Lincoln University men’s team. Seattle Times, https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/sonic-legend-gary-payton-returns-to-seattlein-new-role-coach-of-lincoln-university-mens-team/
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