TheCusian
Living Legend
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There seem to be so many variables to this story, that applying a "business-as-usual" perspective doesn't really apply.
IMO, agree or disagree, the HC had no choice but to go "public" with his opinion. He was fielding questions everyday about an unprecedented and bold move by his own team- boycotting a bowl game?! Of course folks wanted to know the HC's take on things. The real question is whether he should've just dodged and said he had NO opinion, or copped-out with a "no comment" until clearing it with his bosses.
Considering his job security, and the already tenuous relationship he had with the Minny AD, he probably opted to just speak his mind and stand with his team. I admire him for that aspect of it, if he sincerely believed that the kids were doing the right thing in their eyes.
College demonstrations, whether for student rights, privileges, or varied causes, are not unusual. Its an idealistic time where young adults are learning to question authority and speak their minds. Whether misguided or not, they had the right to voice their opinion and/or utilize whatever leverage they had to make their point.
Claeys obviously felt the cause was just, and its an indication of how much of a dumpster fire Coyle exacerbated with how he reached his banning decision, that even the HC was willing to stand against him. Coyle's track record suggests he's allergic to passing along information to ALL relevant parties, before and after making decisions. He doesn't seem like an open book in communication. I'd bet the players felt blindsided by the banning decision, since they were given no background, context, or input before the decision was made by Coyle. That's BAD management on any level. If your students and/or employees feel they are not part of the decision, the "solution" if you will, they can often become part of the problem. Coyle's somewhat arbitrary management style, appears lacking. JMHO.
He had a choice. He choose poorly. The end.