Triple Play Approach

William Strebeck

My Ethical Dilemma
I am the head coach of a high school basketball team, my first year to be a head coach Four players were caught shoplifting The four:
Two Seniors 1 starter, 6th man One Sophomore, contributor and probable start next year The last is a Freshman who was called up from JV for the playoffs

Pre-Decision Pray

The Correct Problem

One: Theft Two: Coercion of others

Pertinent Information
All four players were caught leaving a store with merchandise that they did not purchase Players issues: Senior starter and Sophomore player Items cost under the Petty Theft limit $500-$1000. Which is only a misdemeanor. Can effect Seniors playing future

Code of Conduct
Nothing in training rule specifying theft Not a specific rule in the UIL has rulings but its left up to the school Against the Law

Personal Values and Beliefs

Theft is wrong Scripture is part of the shaping of views

Consulting with Peers

Talk with my Dad Former Basketball Coach The AD

Consequences of not Making a Decision

Other players could do the same thing Loose respect from administration, other coaches, parents and players Loose my job

Decision Options
Punishment after playoffs:
Running for underclassmen; senior face the law Kick all players off the team(s) if they play other sports

Before the team has finished playing:

Punishment for all Dont allow them to play the rest of the playoffs or sit out part of the next game

Decision Options
Unequal Punishment:
Sitting and running different lengths Sit some, while others play Kick one off, other continue

"Win-Win Situation
Punishment and play part of the next game

How would my Family Feel

My family would stand by the decision that I make

Test of Intensions
Were the actions of the players voluntary?
Yes, theft is a voluntary action

What was the motivation for the theft?

They saw something they wanted and did not want to get it honestly Coercion of others

Are there any extenuating circumstances?

No

Test of Universalizability
Can you apply consistently with your decision in all identical situations, involving others, despite the consequences of your decision?
Yes and no

Test of Utilitarianism
Does your decision result in the greatest good for the greatest number of people?
My decision does not

My Decision
Sleep on it Pray for courage and conviction Punishment will fit the crime
All will run Freshman: just run was coerced to shoplift Sophomore: run and is done for the season (will still sit the bench) Seniors: run the most; Starter is done and will not join the team on the bench; 6th man will not play the next game

Pray for continued courage and wisdom