Don't sweat law suits.(A.D.Ministration)

Just Do the Right Thing

When coaches become concerned over a situation that might precipitate a law suit, they often go to their athletic director with a question that begins something like: "Would we be liable if . . .?"

A more appropriate beginning would be: "Would we be doing the right thing if . . .?"

Much of what athletic directors and coaches do professionally can subject them to allegations of negligence, but it would be illogical for them to succumb to the fear of litigation. They should, rather, inform themselves of the risks associated with their work, use commonsense in their decisions, and have a genuine concern for the well-being of their athletes.

Thus prepared, they will be virtually certain to do the right thing.

Most "experts" who address the topic of tort liability in sports create unreasonable fears. They seldom, if ever, mention that lawyers generally regard educators as easily defendable clients. These "experts" prefer to cite the huge, but extremely rare, judgments against schools, athletic directors, and coaches. It is a form of sensationalism that helps keep them on the speaker's circuit, but it is a disservice to school athletics that can lead to the emasculation of programs.

Almost anyone can find an attorney who will file a law suit, regardless of how frivolous it may seem. Physical injury is an inherent risk in most school sports, and accidents are virtually unavoidable.