Coach Tump Walker is a minor character in the novel, but another example of failed social structures. The coach clearly does care for his students, and watches out for both Joe Lon and Willard. However, when Willard drinks, fights, and acts immorally, the coach simply turns a blind eye. While he doesn't encourage drinking, he doesn't object to Willard's drinking either, even though he knows alcohol often leads to violence. Walker also doesn't help these men to curb their violent desires, but actively seems to promote them, showing another failure of the social system.