You can't teach "class", and you can't teach "character". I agree with Twolf: "
Make sure that the “interim” was the very shortest period possible. Doing a drive-by is not looked upon favorably by your peers." That's not the kind of sportsmanship the coaching community or athletic departments in WCBB wants their athletes to display or harbor. She displayed a very poor example of the proper and acceptable behavior after a loss in front of her team that day. The coaches are suppose to set the example they expect their players to follow. Texas Tech is 7-14 (1-9). Needless to say this has been a challenging season for the program. I wonder if the 7 teams they did beat acted like she did? Humm?
What would I do? - Disclaimer:
I'm looking at this situation from an administrator's point of view, not a fan. There are certain protocols and procedures you have to follow, and boxes you have to check before you terminate an employee. If not, your employer could be sued for wrongful termination.
It would depend on the outcome/understanding of the private conversation we would have in my office, AFTER I watched the tape. I would listen to HER SIDE of the story, having no preconceived notions or thoughts going in. I'd be open to whatever she had to say. After she was done, I would render a decision. If I thought her reason(s) did not merit the action, and after cooling off, she exhibits some contrition, I would offer her the opportunity to publicly apologize to all parties involved. If she does, she'd be retained to the end of the season with the understanding that any more displays of this nature the rest of the season, would be grounds for
immediate termination. If she refused, she'd be replaced THAT day!! If I thought her reasons (the nature of which she may not be able to articulate to the media) were justified, I'd handle it personally outside of the media's purview, but with the understanding that this can't happen again.
She's gone at the end of the season. If her position is "interim" (and it is), I'm already looking for a permanent replacement to be our new head coach. Whether she finishes the season or not depends on her showing contrition, and a willingness to
publicly apologize to the opposing coach and both universities for her behavior. The act was done in public, she can apologize in public.
Doing nothing about this situation would send the wrong message to all parties involved. That buck stopped on MY desk, and I would handle it, and I would keep the University president in the loop. We are currently looking at (in the news) the ramifications and fallout of what "doing nothing" on college campuses, public and private employment sectors, the entertainment industry as well as the political arena can lead to. I'm not losing my six figure a year job because of inaction, or the actions or inactions of others. CYA baby!!!
Texas Tech can look bad by itself, it doesn't need any help.