The Line Between a Tough Coach and a Lethal One - Terps Football 2018

DJ Durkin Maryland Football

How many athletes die from heat stroke?

Since 1995, an average of 3 high school or college football players die from heat-related illnesses.Ninety percent of those deaths occurred during practice. Many programs combat the risk of heat-related health problems with cold water immersion tubs, indoor practice facilities, and encouraging players to drink a lot of water. 

I grew up in the DC Metro area, so I know how hot and humid it can get in the Summertime. Maryland, like any other college football program, knows the dangers of overworking in this kind of heat, as well as the signs and symptoms of heat stroke and how to treat it. So how did Jordan McNair’s case of heat exhaustion develop into a lethal case of heat stroke? In a press conference on Monday August 13th, the University of Maryland took full legal and moral responsibility for Jordan McNair’s death.  On top of this, they have put head coach DJ Durkin on administrative leave following allegations of abuse from Durkin's staff, leaving many wondering if he will be fired before the start of the 2018 season. 

How Tough is to Tough? 

​In the wake of Jordan McNair’s tragic death, many have posed the question, ‘how tough is too tough?” Though some reporters and opinion leaders have approached this issue critically, others with more traditional outlooks on football are quick to defend the rough and tough, no-excuses type of football coaching that they experienced as players and continued as coaches. However, those who see this question of “is there an issue with football culture” as an attack on their tradition of football fail to see what part of football culture is actually lethal: the unwritten rule that you can’t tell your coach that you don’t feel well. The celebrated tradition of coaches pushing players to their limits to make them the best athletes they can be is by no means under attack. Tragedies like McNair’s untimely death should be a wakeup call to athletic coaches of all levels to be more attentive and empathetic to the needs and safety of their players. 

Where Do We Draw The Line?

​Unfortunately, on the scale from Mr. Rodgers to Joe Arpaio, a number of college football coaches fall closer to the latter when it comes to how they treat their players. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being tough on your athletes, in fact instilling grit and resilience in young student-athletes is incredibly important on the football field. However, there is a line that needs to be drawn where coaches demonstrate empathy and even act in the interest of their players. Despite the misconception that seems to be developing here, being empathetic and thoughtful is not mutually exclusive with being a tough and inspiring leader. 

Win at All Costs Mentality?

​This culture in football that discourages players from speaking up about how their feeling physically goes beyond just heatstroke. Many injuries suffered by football players are caused less by big impact collisions on the field and more by untreated and perpetual damage to their bodies. You don’t have to become Bob Ross to be an empathetic and thoughtful coach. However, allowing and even encouraging your players to be more forthright with their feelings, you can prevent things like heatstroke, injury, and sometimes even suicide. 

How does Bobby Petrino still have a job?

​It is only fair to the families of young men who have died from heat stroke or heart complications during a practice to make a conscious effort to end the culture of abuse and bullying in the world of high school and college football. Doing so could save someone’s life. 

Tips for preventing heat exhaustion
Hydrate before, during and after exercise.
Maintain appropriate work-to-rest ratios based on the heat and conditions.
Increase rest breaks as temperatures increase.
If you think an athlete is suffering from heat exhaustion, elevate legs and cool person with fans, rotating ice towels, ice bags or ice bath.

Written By Madeline Sperling 

Don't be Ignorant, Save a LIfe - Turtle Style