Addressing Coach Burnout Through Online Tournaments

Speech and debate coaches are the backbone of competitive forensics, but many find themselves battling burnout due to a combination of administrative pressures, overwork, and difficulty balancing personal and professional lives. Online tournaments offer an innovative solution to these challenges, providing opportunities for coaches to stay engaged while mitigating the key causes of burnout.

One of the primary drivers of burnout is the strain caused by unsupportive or demanding administrations. Online tournaments significantly reduce logistical burdens, such as securing travel approvals, managing budgets, and ensuring student safety during trips. By eliminating the need for travel, coaches can more easily justify participation to their schools and administrations, shifting the focus back to the educational value of the activity.

Another major factor contributing to burnout is overwork. Coaches often work 70+ hours a week, juggling tournament preparation, teaching, and travel. Online tournaments reduce the time commitment by eliminating travel days and streamlining tournament schedules, allowing coaches to better manage their time. This approach helps prevent the exhaustion that comes with consecutive late nights and weekend travel.

Lastly, the struggle to balance personal relationships with coaching responsibilities is a frequent concern. Online tournaments allow coaches to remain physically present at home while fulfilling their professional commitments. This flexibility enables them to maintain connections with loved ones and establish healthier boundaries between work and personal life.

By addressing these root causes of burnout, online tournaments not only support the well-being of coaches but also help ensure the long-term sustainability of speech and debate programs.