Coach

The moral beacon of That Championship Season, Coach stands as a relic of a golden past, an aging man who once led four young athletes to a triumphant high school state basketball championship two decades ago. For Coach, this victory is the pinnacle of his career, a moment that has defined his life. It bestowed upon him and his players the status of local heroes, a legacy that still grants him special privileges in the town, even after the sands of time have shifted.

Coach dwells in the shadows of yesterday, clinging to an unchanged identity for sixty years. His living room resembles a shrine to bygone eras, and his attire echoes the sharp lines of a 1940s suit. His beliefs are steeped in 1950s ideologies; he harbors anti-Semitic views and supports figures like Joseph McCarthy and Father Coughlin, a controversial conservative Catholic radio preacher. For Coach, victory justifies any means necessary.

He abhors discord, particularly among his former players, whom he still calls "his boys." Coach yearns for their success in life's battles, just as they succeeded on the basketball court, wielding their loyalty to sway their choices.

James Daley

James, one of the 1952 champions and Tom Daley's elder brother, is a man tethered to his roots. He is married to Helen and is the father of five children, having never strayed from his hometown. Currently, he serves as the principal of the local junior high school and navigates the tumultuous world of politics as George's campaign manager. As the play unfolds, James dreams of ascending to the role of school superintendent. However, when Phil hints at withdrawing support for George's mayoral candidacy, James quickly offers himself as a potential successor, only to be dismissed.

His life leaves him feeling jaded and deceived. James has borne the burden of caring for his ailing, alcoholic father and continues to aid his struggling brother, Tom. His daily grind involves managing unruly students, and he yearns for his own reward, believing that George holds the key. Yet, by the play's conclusion, Phil insists on replacing James with external experts, sidelining him once more. Though reconciled with the group, his personal aspirations remain overshadowed by collective interests.

Tom Daley

Tom, the younger sibling of James and a fellow player on the 1952 team, is a man adrift, drowning in alcohol throughout the play. Having skipped three previous reunions, he intends to disappear from town soon after this one. Unemployed and frequently ousted from various abodes, Tom serves as a scathing commentator on the absurdities of his peers' beliefs and actions, much to their irritation—particularly Coach's. James harbors resentment towards Tom, having to financially support him, yet Tom perceives James's actions as driven by duty rather than affection.

Tom unveils the truth behind Martin, the absent fifth player, though the others refuse to accept it. Coach attempts to coerce Tom into reforming his life, but Tom remains defiant. By the play's end, Tom stays within the group, yet continues to see through their illusions, recognizing the myth in which they all reside.

Phil Romano

Phil, another alumnus of the 1952 championship team, has settled in his birthplace, overseeing a prosperous family business. Wealthy and restless, he derives satisfaction from his possessions and numerous romantic liaisons. Though married to Claire and father to two, they share an understanding and engage in extramarital affairs. A liaison with George's wife, Marion, fuels dramatic tensions during the play.

Phil's financial clout secured George's mayorship in the previous election, earning him a valuable lease on local land in exchange for his backing. However, he doubts George's...