
Explained version:
The post describes a memorable moment from 2022 involving the writer, her then-12-year-old son, and his swim coach. During a team session, the coach had been asking the kids to name people they found inspiring. When her son responded with “Andrew Tate,” the coach grew concerned. After the kids jumped into the pool, he politely and discreetly approached the boy’s mother to let her know what had happened.
She recalls being confused at first, because she didn’t recognize the name. When she asked who Andrew Tate was, the coach gently explained that Tate was a highly controversial online figure known for misogynistic views and a style of influence similar to other polarizing public figures. The coach told her that, based on what he knew of her and her husband, he couldn’t imagine they would be comfortable with their son admiring someone like that. He made it clear that he wasn’t judging, just trying to give her a heads-up in case she wanted to address it.
The writer reflects that although the coach no longer works with the team, she has repeatedly thought about that moment over the years. She appreciates how thoughtful, respectful, and proactive he was—and how his willingness to speak up demonstrated genuine care for her child’s well-being and development.