How about Bill Parcells?

[EastStang]

Poor Bill, he is getting roasted here in the east over his "Jap tactics" quote. I guess when the Cowboys play in NJ, Philly and DC he'll see lots of coolee hats in the stands. What was funny was his apology as he said it, "I don't want to offend the orientals?"

[giacfsp]

He's a smart man. He should know that any time you feel the urge to preface AND follow a comment with a disclaimer about not wanting to offend anyone, chances are he's going to do just that. I can't remember a more boneheaded comment from him. His intent was understood, but his choice of words was poor, at best.

[king_k]

I'm not Japanese or Oriental, but I didn't find his comments so insensitive. I mean, its the truth that the Japs sure did surprise the hell outta us. I thought it was kind of creative. People are blowing this way out of proportion.

[giacfsp]

Very true, kink_k. But Parcells still should have known better. Hell, when he was one of the wonks at ESPN, I'd bet they gave him a crash course in what might or might be interpreted as insensitive. He's a very smart man, and this was a poor choice in words. Blown out of proportion, to be sure, but still regrettable.

[king_k]

Agreed. It probably shouldn't have been said, but has been overblown.