I was trying to be as respectful as possible with this because I know it's very difficult so, please, no offense was intended. But I stand by my "absurd' comment. When I came onboard this year for the HS mod team, after 2 practices, I was informed that I had to "ease up" and "you have to baby them, you know, and keep the numbers up." I spoke with both of my ACs and we agreed, it wasn't happening. If the HS didn't like it, they could find other coaches. Bottom line, after daily practices and steady (key word here) coaching, we have a good cohesive team with parent and school support. Maybe the best way to put it, for me at least, is this - from the time we step on the field to the time we leave it, practices or games, I am not their friend nor do I try to be. I am their coach and I will do what I think is best for them and the team. I explain that to my players as the situations call for and then do my best.