I've only heard of one school nearby that has closed outdoor practices. No way to see from cars either. If coach sets tone I would see no problems w parents sitting quietly in stands for a little while when they come to pick up son.If they get involved shut them down. I like the idea of them seeing how their son compares to teammates. He may not do as well as they think, or they can see what he needs to work on.
Our coach has no problem w parents. He doesn't change his language when they r around. I think a few r intimidated by him. That can be a good thing.
For the Varsity it's not usually a problem since most of the players (Juniors and Seniors) have their own vehicles and parents are not coming to pick them up.
Why does a parent need to see how the players compare to each other? It's not how the players compare to each other, but do they have the necessary skills to play at the varsity level. A good coach will be letting the players know what skills each player needs to work on. However, by HS, prospective players should have the necessary skills to play at that level - if they don't, they more than likely won't make the team.
Part of the process is a learning experience for parents, too. At this stage it's time for the players to man up and take responsibility. After all they are transitioning from boys to being young men. Mom and Dad don't need to there to hold their hand. As a parent, my only job was to make sure he was attending school, getting good grades and to show up on game day. I didn't need to be observing practice every day. Besides, practice was usually over by the time I arrived home from work anyway.....
If you don't learn to trust the coach in HS, you're in for a rude awakening at the college level.
I love baseball, I love my son, I love watching him enjoy baseball. Enjoy the dad's setting in the stands for a few minutes counting who hit how many bombs, just enjoying being outside with fellow baseball lovers. It has nothing to do with "trusting" the coach he knows less about the game than my daughter I wouldn't trust him with a 8u team if I was paying for it, I am positive the college coach knows more. It shows support for the team, support for your son and it's about the love of the game. I'm guessing your one of the dad's that convinces himself you miss all your kids activities to help them. Sure keep saying that.