Coaching: A Realistic Perspective

Coaching: A Realistic Perspective is the ideal textbook for anyone entering the coaching profession of any sport. More than detailing the duties and tasks of a coach, this book explores the often-overlooked issues and responsibilities that go hand-in-hand with coaching: relationships among players, parents, and fans; ethical and moral issues and controversies; off-season housekeeping duties; and concerns particular to head and assistant coaches as well as single and married coaches. Similar to its previous edition, the eleventh edition includes end-of-chapter discussion questions to help inspire debate over common coaching issues.

This edition has been updated to reflect the impact of social media on the coaching profession, including how it can be used in good, positive ways and how it can be detrimental to coaches and athletes if not used properly. It also features updated material on the issue of hazing, a huge concern today in all levels of athletics.

Michael D. Sabock was an assistant football coach in charge of special teams at Western Michigan University. In addition to coaching, he also served as the recruiting coordinator.

Ralph J. Sabock passed away in 2010. He taught professional preparation courses, including Methods and Principles of Coaching, at Pennsylvania State University.