This past week, Holy Family University coach John O’Connor made national headlines after he engaged in a physical altercation with one of his players. A video tape was released showing O’Connor ripping the ball from his player, Matt Kravchuk, then shoving him to the ground by extending his elbow, and lightly kicking him while he was on the ground. Though O’Connor was not convicted of any criminal charges, the inability of Kravchuk to accept an apology on national television combined with the wave of negative publicity in the aftermath of the incident led to his resignation.
First, let me say that I think that the actions of John O’Connor were wrong and inappropriate. While a coach may be pushed to the point where it seems it would be best to physically touch a player, he has to use restraint. There is no need to physically hurt a player or send a message through physical abuse. Certain coaches may instill a strong desire to be tough in their players, but players should always feel safe. A coach needs to understand the balance between emotional energy and proper instruction. The coach is the leader of these players and, most importantly, a role model. The coach needs to display the appropriate behavior while preparing these student athletes for their roles later in life.
Therefore, in the case of John O’Connor, I think an apology was necessary and punishment was essential. O’Connor apologized to the student privately as well as on national television and ultimately lost his job. However, I also think the overall character and personal history of a coach should be taken into consideration when passing judgment on a single event in their life. A Penn State graduate, John O’Connor grew up in the Philadelphia area and has spent many years as a coach and administrator at the collegiate level, including time at Villanova and Drexel. Many former colleagues stated good things about O’Connor, who is known as a fiery guy who expects that his players are tough and give their best effort every time they step on to the court. Thaddeus Young of the Philadelphia 76ers still echoed these statements, as he came to the defense of his former coach. Most notably, though, as the story gained national attention throughout the week, a letter from O’Connor’s current team appeared that showed support for their coach and claimed that he understood he had made a mistake.
Therefore, I think John O’Connor was wrong to treat Matt Kravchuk in the manner in which he did. Matt Kravchuk should feel physically safe at practice and ready to give his best effort for the team. Although I do not condone physical abuse from a coach, I do think Kravchuk could have accepted the apology of his coach, John O’Connor, and moved forward. O’Connor should have controlled his emotions, but I do not see his actions as deliberately malicious. Since the two could not come to an agreement, they had to go their separate ways.
I truly believe O’Connor had the best interest of the team in mind and simply stepped over the line. To me, the fact that many former players and colleagues, as well as his current players, came to his side speaks to his character. While John O’Connor may have deserved to lose his job at Holy Family, he deserves a shot at coaching somewhere else. While Matt Kravchuk can’t move past this lapse in judgment, I think others should consider John O’Connor’s strong track record, his remorse for his behavior, and his ability to accept full responsibility for his actions.
Should have kept job; May be an incident that deserves attention and correction but it went too far and should not have ruined anyone’s life
Thanks for the comment and I certainly agree. While John O’Connor was wrong, it is a shame that a few seconds seems to have ruined his life.
Great article Chris. I’ve known Coach “O” a long time and had the opportunity to work Drexel camps with him. He’s very passionate and intense but also a wonderful positive coach who deserves to be coaching somewhere. Fran Dunphy or Jay Wright will find him a job.