Coaches aren’t just coaches out of nowhere, so, this is me, thinking about Ted as an educator.
Ted Lasso, trying to make his way coaching, but taking side streets to get there. High School Football in the mornings and afternoons and three Home Ec periods during the school day, teaching teenagers how to bake and sow a backpack. Or teaching basic Health, including Sex Ed. Ted Lasso sponsoring his school’s GLSEN chapter once a week. High School PE teacher Ted Lasso, teaching kids pickleball and basketball and being so kind and patient and supportive, “Young lady, have you ever thought about trying out for our JV Girl’s Basketball team? You’ve got one heckuvan arm. Coach So’n’so needs a shooter, and if I do say so myself, you’re taking SHOTS.”
Then when he leaves the High School level for College Level, making dang certain he’s doing all he can to help his students make the grade. Holding study sessions for the players who have a rougher go at things. Helping them find suitable tutors. Teaching these fellas nutrition and giving them appropriate advice on how to protect themselves in all ways, and also, to be good citizens of the world.
Augh. I love you, Coach Lasso.
