Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

Coach Ripley

There aren't many mentors at Andy's school who are willing to help him and his friends. The counselor mocks him when he claims he wants to go pre-law, and while most teachers are pretty understanding at first, they quickly lose interest as Andy spirals downhill. Even his parents tell him to get over the "unfortunate incident." Not Coach Ripley, though: This guy shows up at Andy's trial, supports him when he wants to be team captain, and always lends a friendly ear to listen to the guy's thoughts. He tells Andy that it's okay to cry, and gives him a shoulder to do so on. Too bad he's not home the night Andy kills himself.