Anger can be a good tool in the sports toolbox. Players can use anger to forge through a difficult time, gather up more energy or power to the end of a game. Anger becomes a problem when the negative effects outweigh the positive ones.
Some negative effects of anger:
- Causing injury to yourself or opponent.
- Decreasing performance output.
- Reflecting poorly on you and/or your teammates.
- Losing a game or match.
Congratulations, Ben Eager, you’ve manager to hit all the negative effects of anger in your conference finals game 2 performance against the Vancouver Canucks.
Ben’s performance sets the standards for anger meltdowns in a team sport. I wish there was an award, but you’ll have to settle for the, well, display in the penalty box.
How could Ben have handled his anger problem effectively?
Acceptance – He could accept the Sharks are outmatched against the Canucks.
Removal – He could remove himself from the situation, though being sent to the penalty box for a fight doesn’t count and defeats the purpose.
Self-control – Catch yourself before you make an outburst or a threatening action toward the opposing goalie.
Grow up – Realize that your selfish actions cause your teammates to suffer.
The Sharks have no chance of coming back and winning this series.