I have a simple rule. There is no distinction between a practice or a game. They hold equal importance. If you miss you sit. If you miss again you sit double. If you miss three times you have struck out and see you later. You can have all the excuses you want to have. I just know this. I don't miss what is important to me. If it is not important enough for you to make sure you attend it's not important enough for me to keep you around. Once it's clear, well it's clear. You won't change the culture over night. You won't change it without opposition. You won't change it by being liked by everyone. But if you are consistent and fair you can change it. Good Luck