The Odessa, Texas passion for Friday night high school football (Permian High Panthers) comes through clearly in this cinematic treatment of H. G. (Buzz) Bissinger’s well-regarded book of the same title.[1] Coach Gary Gaines (Billy Bob Thornton) leads them to the 1988 semifinals where they must compete against a team of much larger players. Fast-moving pace in the football sequences and a slower pace in the serious, introspective sequences give this film many fine moments.

Communication: Half-Time

This sequence begins with a shot of Coach Gaines and the team gathered around him during the half-time break. He starts his speech to the team by saying, “Well, it’s real simple. You got two more quarters and that’s it.” It ends after Gaines says, “Boys, my heart is full. My heart’s full.” He calls to Ivory Christian (Lee Jackson) to begin the team prayer. This sequence draws from DVD Chapter 27, “Half-Time.” However, we edited in scenes from other parts of the film to reduce the number of identifiable talent to whom we must pay a fee. If you have seen this film, you will know that this exact sequence does not exist at any point in the film.

This sequence  begins with a shot of Coach Gaines and the team gathered around him during the half-time break. He starts his speech to the team by saying, “Well, it’s real simple. You got two more quarters and that’s it.” It ends after Gaines says, “Boys, my heart is full. My heart’s full.” He calls to Ivory Christian (Lee Jackson) to begin the team prayer.

1.    This chapter defines communication as creating “a shared or common meaning in another person.” Do you perceive Coach Gaines as having reached that communication goal? Why or why not?

2.    The chapter described an Interpersonal Communication Model. What are examples from this film sequence of each part of the model?

3.    Assess the effectiveness of this communication event. How do you expect team members and the assistant coaches to react in the second half of the game?