If you had played high school sports, you probably recognize that there are going to be times when you win and times when you lose. It is part of playing the game and nobody ever expected any different.
Of course, there are some who feel as if every child should be a winner and there should never be anyone who comes out on the losing end. We realize that is an unrealistic view, but it is one that is held by some people and everybody has a right to their own opinion.
In Connecticut, however, it seems as if things were taken to an extreme. A high school basketball coach was in the hot seat because his team beat another team in the local area 92-4.
The Sacred Heart Academy beat the other team by that lopsided score. By the time the first quarter was over, they were leading 29-0 and after three quarters, they were leading 80-0.
At least the other team scored a few points in the fourth quarter.
A few decades ago, this would’ve been a lesson to learn but that isn’t the case today. The president of the school came forward to say about how remorseful they were over how the game was played. They apologized about their girl’s basketball team and then suspended the coach.
The coach, Jason Kirck had been with the school for three years. Since the way he played the game did not align with the teachings and principles of the school, they have decided to suspend him for one game.
A statement was given by the president of the school that pretty much some things up:
Sacred Heart Academy values the lessons taught and cultivated through athletic participation, including ethical and responsible behavior, leadership and strength of character, and respect for one’s opponents. Last night’s Girls’ Basketball game vs Lyman Hall High School does not align with our values or philosophies.
Sacred Heart Academy Administration and Athletics are deeply remorseful for the manner through with the outcome of the game was achieved. We are in communication with Lyman Hall High School, the Southern Connecticut Conference and CIAC, and are addressing these concerns internally to ensure that our athletic programs continue to encourage personal, physical and intellectual growth.
It’s also interesting what the Connecticut Interscholastic Athlete Conference handbook has to say on the subject:
“Coaches will be aware of the competitive balance of contests and will manage the score in a manner that is sportsmanlike and respectful of opponents.”
We live in different times.