We just had our season opener in our area and I was unpleasantly reminded of just how bad running coaches can be. This was a 3k/4k mixed meet with both middle and high school runners. I coach hs. At mile 2 a coach from a nearby school that will remain nameless was literally screaming bloody murder at his runners to make a move: "PICK....THEM....OFF" in this semi-satanic sounding growl. He repeated this over and over again like some effing metronome to every single one of his runners that came by, even the kid in the caboose who clearly had absolutely no ability to pick anyone off.
I don't know about you but if I was in 8th grade, this kind of threat (there's no other word for it) would fill me with fear, anxiety and/or irritation but certainly do nothing to make me actually "pick them off" with ease and grace. This is human psych 101.
I have seen this kind of coaching, and many worse examples, so many times over the years I just scratch my head over the fact that in 2014 with all we know about adolescent development and the best learning environment for kids that coaches are still acting like a xc meet, or any other athletic contest for that matter, is some kind of gladiator fest.
I honestly think we need to have monitors to keep overzealous coaches, and parents for that matter in check. If you can hear them barking from a half mile away, they are way too involved. If they keep it up, I think it's totally reasonable to fine them for disturbing the peace.
I don't think I always get it right but it seems to me being firm and authoritative shouldn't require anyone to scream, taunt, insult, or joke at any runner's expense.
I'd like to hear whatever people have to say about effective or ineffective coaching style.