Ethical Dilemma
respond to the this Ethical Dilemma Below:
One of the most important characteristics of an effective leader is treating people equitably. This involves fairness and consistency, including regards to applying the rules to everyone equally. What should a coach do when a few superstar players get caught breaking rules that should lead to their suspension from the team immediately before a big game that is very important to the team?
If the star players don’t play, there is a good chance the team will lose. If the team has to win this game to advance to the championship game, should that affect the coach’s decision?
If the coach doesn’t apply appropriate consequences to the actions of the players who broke the rules, what lesson are those players learning? Will they continue to break rules?
What about the other players who do follow the rules. Will they learn that the rules are just suggestions and feel like they don’t need to comply in the future?
What if one of the players who broke the rules will miss a chance to be seen by professional scouts if he doesn’t play in the game?
What if the team’s school will earn a large amount of money from television coverage of the big game if the team goes to the championship?
What if the coach is set to earn a big bonus or significant pay increase if the team advances to the championship game?
Coaches are responsible for winning, but they’re also responsible for setting an appropriate example of leadership for players and treating all team members fairly. What may seem to be an obvious choice between right and wrong at first glance is really much more complicated.
Sample Solution
Ultimately, the coach should follow his or her moral compass and treat all players fairly and consistently. Even though suspending the star players may lead to a loss in this game,
it is important that they face appropriate consequences for their actions no matter how important the game may be. This teaches those players that breaking rules will not be tolerated and deters them from doing so in the future. It also sets an example for other team members that following rules is expected of everyone, regardless of their talent or ability.
In addition to setting a good example for current team members, punishing rule-breakers also sends a positive message to prospective team members about what kind of behavior is acceptable within the program. If no action is taken against those who break rules, then others may assume that such behaviors are condoned and don’t feel as obligated to abide by them when they join the team.
The potential financial losses associated with suspension should not play into this decision either. Although these losses can be significant if the team advances to championship games or earns television coverage, sacrificing ethical principles will only have further-reaching implications beyond just losing money in one particular instance.
While suspending star players could mean missing out on professional scouts seeing them play or cost more than just money in terms of missed opportunities, standing up for what’s right has its own rewards both now and down the line when considering future prospects like college recruitment offers and sponsorship deals based off of character rather than stats alone.
At times like this it can be difficult for coaches to do what’s right instead of taking an easier route towards success, but making sure justice is served through fairness and consistency will always benefit teams in ways beyond just winning titles - creating a culture where respect for authority reigns supreme can never hurt no matter how big or small your program may be.