That the internet is a trigger for antisocial behavior and unwarranted rudeness is hardly news to anyone, but I find it weird how often people let things turn bad before they even think about possible explanations to their problems.

I read some blog commenting about how rude and cowardous it is to not respond to challenges and the author seems like he is completly missing that there might be very valid explanations to why someone doesn't respond.

The non responsive coach might be busy doing something away from the computer, or as often is the case with me, I get a game and then I don't monitor the chat window.
Do you keep an eye on the chat window while you play? Good for you, but don't expect everyone to live their life according to your routines.

I always try to respond to challenges, even taking the time to wish people good luck with their games or something similar. I have no problems turning someone down if the match seems unfair, because to me it has nothing to do with cowardice. This is a game. It's just about enjoyment. I won't enjoy seeing my team being ripped to shreds by your multi rsc chaos team or trampled by your 6 dp's, so I will very likely say no to spending an hour or more of my time doing something I won't enjoy. If you think that makes me a coward, well...then it might be high time that you take a break from your computer and go out and explore the real world for a while, because you have lost touch with reality. And I have a feeling that most of the people accusing others of being cowards for such reasons online are the type that gave up their lunch money to bullies during their school days...

Sometimes it might take me some time to respond. I might be considering another offer or I might just not have my attention on the chat window, but if I keep you waiting...get over it. It's nice to get a response, but seriously, what is the big deal if a challenge is left unresponded? Take the silence as a no thanks and get on with your life.

Last week I got some bitter coach's "thanks for not replying" waiting for me when I had finished my match. I informed him that I had been busy playing, but to my surprise he didn't find that a valid excuse, and continued being rude and sarcastic about the issue. People that agree with him are welcome to blacklist me or make a mental note never to challenge me, because I would prefer to not have any form of interaction with you.