One simple rule applies here: develop a consistent policy and cling to
it. If grades are low, get behind the team in every way and you can
usually swing the backward students into line on their studies, even
when there is no danger of losing place because of lame lessons. Move
the players around and use substitutes frequently so that no one will
fasten on a given post as personal property.
A strong man can organize the town folks so that their support will be
always helpful. In any case the appearance of a milk and water policy
must be avoided.