Barriers will always exist among people, for whatever reason, but by pushing the boundaries and thinking outside the "bubble" that some of these team members exist and think in, the Coach is instilling lifelong skills in these players. Additionally, another important scene is when the white captain yells at his teammate of the same race because he failed to block his black teammate in practice. Though the captain was rough on his teammate, the coach allows the emotional outburst and tirade continue as the team watches. By allowing this to continue, the Coach allows the captain to become an example and emerge as a leader of how the team should be operating- that all races are equal and that regardless of the color of their skin, a teammate should be protected. The technique that is being taught here is to make fellow peers and teammates become role models. It is a different experience being taught by someone who is older and has more experiences, but when an individual sees someone else their own age that has similar life experiences, they are more likely to emulate it.
Personal/Professional Implications
Through his many meticulously chosen actions and decisions, Coach...
Boone mentions at one point in the film, "I think this is a very good time for prayer and reflection," a very powerful yet subtle statement. The implications of this statement on a professional level include his desire to be fair and to make decisions and take actions where no side is short changed and everyone's opinions, to the best of his ability are heard. Reflection is key in any leadership or coaching position as it encourages constant adjustments and attempts to try to make something better and more effective. To that end, it helps the coaching team work together and the team work together both on and off the field. Furthermore, the personal implications of Boone's statements are substantial. Prayer and reflection connect to players on both a spiritual and cognitive level. By appealing on a very deep personal level, it allows the players to become closely aligned to the moment and ultimately, the teammates and staff that they are sharing the moment with. It seems that the moment is no longer just their own individual moment, but rather a team moment- where everyone is sharing the moment on the same level.
