As I understand it,the Kansas State High School Activities Associations's (KSHSAA) new rules regarding coaches' summer contact with athletes will now allow volleyball, football and basketball coaches access to their grade 7 - 12 athletes in three (3) different waves during the summer. I would anticipate that this rule change will likely stregthen the overall quality of football, volleyball and basketball in Kansas.
But, as I see it, this new rule also has a considerable downside: summer preatices will create a culture of obligatory attendance and will serve to clearly encourage the single-sport athlete. Now a high school football player will potentially spend 27 weeks practicing and playing (i.e. 12 weeks of summer; 2 weeks of pre-season; 9 weeks of regular season; 4 weeks of post-season.
Another consideration: from what I understand most coaches typically get paid as teachers with a modest coaching stipend to supplement their teacher's pay. Now, they will most certainly feel inordinate pressure to devote considerable time in their coaching endeavors to keep-up, remain competitive and/or otherwise impress their administration, booster-club and fan base that their doing everything to achieve. Forget about summer employment, spending some quality time with his/her own family ...
There is something to the sentiment that kids need to get away from coaches during the summer and coaches probably need some time-off from the kids. Those athletes who have desire will find a way to get better.
I am aware that for many athletes, parents and coaches, the "holy grail" of summer practices will make an athlete better. But at what cost?
I would imagine many in the wrestling community feel somewhat slighted for the failure to allow for expansion of their season. Or maybe not.
