Educator-Coach as Stranger

Abstract

The recent allegations of widespread child abuse at Penn State add to the already lengthy and never ending litany of scandals and problems associated within and around intercollegiate athletics. We begin this article by briefly situating these abuses within their socio-historical context and the complex power relations of intercollegiate athletics. We surmise that the economic, social, and moral problems associated with intercollegiate athletics (including Penn State) are nothing new, although they are currently receiving greater attention and scrutiny from scholars and the media. While criticizing intercollegiate athletics consistent inability to align itself with educational values and govern its coaches is worthwhile, its constituents comprise a tiny fraction of all sporting participants. We argue that a more prudent way forward for sport, at all levels, is through coach education and increased regulation. Curiously, the preparation and regulation of coaches has been a major omission from American society. In order to rectify these concerns, we conclude that now is the time to make the educator-coach the new norm