:mattLandia:

Ok. You got me. Maybe not zombies. Bitterroot Idiots is more apropos. Or maybe just really, really bitter roots. The stink of Hamilton Montana's School Board can be smelled approximately 2200 miles away. Joe Jessop (my brother in law) is one of the classiest, most dedicated basketball coaches I have ever met. He understands hard work, he understands that high school athletics are as much about winning as about building quality character. He actually wants to stay in Hamilton, wants to coach your sons in spite of your constant whining and back seat coaching, LOVES the game, and got your team to a competitive level of play by the time end of season rolled around.

And you want to fire him from the position? Unbelievable. Quit sucking that bitter root so hard and try embracing something a little more savory -- loyalty, patience, and true sportsmanship.

The May 22 Ed Op in Ravali Republic described the thankless job of coaching best here:

HELP WANTED:

High school coach. Candidates must have at least a bachelor's degree, two years coaching experience at the high school level, skin as thick as tree bark, willingness to be bad mouthed by meddling parents of the players you coach and the tranquil restraint that prevents you from losing your cool when they accuse you of a) not playing their kid enough, b) not playing their kid properly, or c) not winning every game during the length of their kid's career.

Success is not a guarantee of job security.

Pay is about $2.50 an hour, less if you take into account time spent talking to dads who think their kid would be getting college scholarship offers by now if you weren't such an idiot. Good opportunity for a young coach not yet embittered by years of community criticism and unattainable expectations.