The Men’s Network Against Domestic Violence, is offering a statewide violence prevention program called Coaching Boys Into Men* Playbook Program. The program is based on the Playbook developed by the nationally recognized Family Violence Prevention Fund and Boston Celtic legend M.L. Carr’s WARM2Kids organization.
Developed in consultation with coaches across the country, the Playbook provides concise, accessible guidance and exercises for coaches on how to effectively integrate discussion about dating and sexual violence into an athletic season.
While athletes look to coaches for direction on the field, many coaches also provide direction and set expectations concerning an athlete’s life off the field. This often includes expectations about academics and the use of drugs and alcohol.
Dating and sexual violence is a serious social issue, yet athletes and students do not hear about the issue from their role models. Working to counter this silence, a coach’s direction can make a dramatic impression. The Playbook, with respect for coach’s time, provides background information and ideas for presenting proactive information, discussion, and setting expectations with athletes.
Taking a proactive approach offers the possibility to reinforce healthy attitudes and behaviors many boys already hold, but may never hear affirmed by the role models in their life. Knowing that they are not alone, boys are more likely to confront their peers when they hear about or witness demeaning and violent behavior toward girls. For athletes who may have experienced violence in the home, coaches hold the potential to be a ‘protective factor’, a person whose influence sets a healthier expectation for affected kids.
The Playbook is available for review online. The Playbook’s introduction by Joe Torre, M.L. Carr, and Pete Carroll highlights the positive role of sports in dealing with critical social issues affecting student athletes. To conclude as they do, “…you help lay a solid foundation for your players’ lives that will be remembered far longer than any win column.”
