Ask the Coach
Trash talk Hey, Coach! My best friend “Rose” is always talking trash about others. While I’m kind of fed up with it, it’s not as bad when she’s talking just to me, but it’s really bad when she starts trashing everyone in front of others. Sometimes, she’ll talk bad about “Julie” in front of “Terri.” Then, she’ll talk bad about “Terri” in front of “Julie.” It just doesn’t make any sense. I have tried to talk to “Rose” about this, but it’s like talking to an invisible person. What is also troubling is that I am linked as being a part of this. How can I get others to understand that’s not true?
Signed….. BFF
Dear BFF: Hmmmm.
Sounds like you definitely have your hands full with the “girlfriend.” Two thoughts quickly come to mind. First, you may not see it this way, but you are (indirectly) a part of this, even though you may be completely innocent of any trash talking. We’ve all heard the phrase “guilt by association.” It’s probably not going to happen, but some would suggest putting a little distance between the two of you if “Rose” chooses to continue her boorish behavior. Another thought may be way out in left field, but here goes. Perhaps an intervention is one way of dealing with this. “Rose” will probably blow a fuse in your direction, but you can do your best to put a very positive spin on this, and then make sure others in the intervention have your back. This intervention could also clear the air about your part in this. Best wishes for a successful close to this matter.
Pens, Steelers, Pirates
Hey, Coach! Why don’t the Pirates just follow the leader in town. The Pens and Steelers have a template for success that is only a stones throw away. The Pirates had great success during several stretches in the 1970s – early 1990s, so it can be done in Pittsburgh. Is my thinking correct, or am I off base?
Signed……..Golden Glove
Dear Golden Glove: One huge difference among the three teams is that the Pirates’ ownership could never be equated with that of the Pens or Steelers. Therein lies 75 percent of the problem. While everyone likes and needs to make money, the Pirates’ ownership cannot honestly look anyone in the face and say that winning has been a top priority during the last 10 years. Although they keep telling us that it is (what else can they say?), they have also cracked a lot of mirrors along the way. No one should ever question the owners if they want to win because everyone wants to win. It increases their bottom line in several ways. What we can question are the supposed steps taken to put or “keep” a winning product on the field. The Pirates have had some outstanding players in the last decade. Just think about how many quality players that have been traded, to include the trades this year and last. Win or lose, it’s still a great night out at the ball park.
Hall of Fame update
Close to 400 people have joined the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame during the last eight months, and our board of directors would like to thank everyone for this great show of support. Less than three weeks remain before the Hall of Fame weekend in mid-July. The golf outing is at the Uniontown Country Club on July 17, where inductees will be in attendance and many will golf. Spots are limited.
Regarding the banquet on July 18 at Anthony’s Lakeside Party Center, ticket sales are going well, and please note that a head count must be forwarded about a week in advance, so please act now if you hope to attend. The social hour starts at 5 p.m.
Feel free to contact us at 724-430-4100, ext. 4886 if interested in the golf event and/or the induction banquet. Costs are very reasonable.
Coach’s Comment: One of the great things about receiving a kind gesture is to not only return it, but also to pass it on to others.
Be safe, and thanks for making the Coach a part of your day.
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You can contact the Coach at askthecoach2003@yahoo.com.