UConn Coach Geno Auriemma Shares Wisdom for Children in Sports
By Movieguide® Contributor
Uconn women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma reminded parents why he doesn’t put their children in the game. In a day and age where parents seem enraged if their child rides the bench, Auriemma’s previous words strike a chord as children must face their own consequences.
“We put a huge premium on body language,” Auriemma said. “And if your body language is bad, you will never get in the game. Ever. I don’t care how good you are.”
The coach’s words reflect the importance of his players’ presence, attitude and engagement with the game and their team members.
“He’s the guy everyone loves … that is, until he gives it to you straight, and then you hate him for it. But underneath the anger you know what he’s saying is true,” Auriemma’s website biography says.
Auriemma offered more insight to how he coaches when he said he’s more concerned with his players’ conduct than he is about winning.
He doesn’t hesitate to put players on the sidelines when they lack enthusiasm for the game.
“If somebody is not engaged in the game, they will never get in again… and they know that. They know I’m not kidding,” the coach said. “I’d rather lose than watch some kids play the way some kids play.”
“I just want the players to understand that the one constant in our program is that we want to make sure we play hard and have fun,” Auriemma stresses.
Movieguide® previously shared Auriemma’s comments on the injury-related absence of one of UConn’s star players, Paige Bueckers: “Paige is obviously an amazing basketball player but she’s a better person and teammate and it’s really unfortunate that this has happened to her. We’ll miss her presence on the court, but she’ll do everything she can to still lead and help her teammates this season. Our program will support Paige through her healing process to help her come back better and stronger.”
UConn looks forward to November and Bueckers’ return to the team.
