Oh my goodness.
Let's just call it what it is. The Drillers have a great team at this Freshmen level. The Drillers have a good program period. To say that every level is well coached is not accurate. But, this freshmen class has been doing well for years.
Are they ready for the Varsity? That answer is obvious. (I believe 4 started today against Cox.)You can tell by the results of the games.
Redbird, the history was not about the best players. The history was with the individual player, in most cases only the coach may know some of the personal details.
Driller can tell you, there will be times that the senior is not performing well. Not performing well meaning many strike outs at the plate. Sometimes that leadership role and the kid being aware that if he keeps working hard it will come around. Confidence in the player, those unwritten rules, the coach seeing the player staying after games to get extra BP. Setting up the tee in rf and staying until dark.
Is it wrong to put a kid on the field that didn't try out. On the surface, no. But, what were the reasons?
The Kellam team looked horrible today, a few bright spots, but basically horrible. But the Cox team didn't look much better. There, I said it!
As far as the "random" drug test. Go to the School Board website and read the policy portion. I would hope that no coach (whether I agree with the theory or not) would not consult the legal advisors on employed by the School Board before enforcing any drug policy. There are specific guidelines that must be followed.
Lynn Metheny
COX-3
KELLAM-1
WP Grayson Bailey (complete game)
KELLAM-1
WP Grayson Bailey (complete game)
I thought both pitchers did very well. kept the game close on both sides and a couple of errors definitely cost a run or two. I would not call the play horrible but could have been a better played game overall from both teams. Not much hitting either way.
Jeff Di Fulgo Sr.
Jeff Di Fulgo Sr.
shutumdown....
Still sounds like a good game. I'm sure it was a brisk evening up there in VB while this one was played. I'm sure you would know the answer to this,
Blake Leebrick(?), Kellams catcher I believe, he commited to play anywhere at the next level?
Still sounds like a good game. I'm sure it was a brisk evening up there in VB while this one was played. I'm sure you would know the answer to this,
Blake Leebrick(?), Kellams catcher I believe, he commited to play anywhere at the next level?
ECU...
Blake Leebrick will be playing for Chowan.
Blake Leebrick will be playing for Chowan.
Mr. Difulgo,
Maybe horrible was too strong a word. Obviously better played than the 2 10 run losses last week. But with all due respect, there were quite a few balks, quite a few passed balls, quite a few errors, both throwing and catching, and very few hits. Not to call out any names, because all of the team was involved, it was not a well played game. Too many guys left on base, but Cox just didn't do much better.
Haven't seen the box score, but am curious how it looks.
By the way, great to see Jeff out there!
Maybe horrible was too strong a word. Obviously better played than the 2 10 run losses last week. But with all due respect, there were quite a few balks, quite a few passed balls, quite a few errors, both throwing and catching, and very few hits. Not to call out any names, because all of the team was involved, it was not a well played game. Too many guys left on base, but Cox just didn't do much better.
Haven't seen the box score, but am curious how it looks.
By the way, great to see Jeff out there!
Hey Babe ! pretty fair assessment... Maybe I was wrong with your newest nickname ? Perhaps we could start calling you the "Mal Vincent" of South Hampton Roads baseball ?
After having a phone conversation with Driller yesterday, I realised that my comments were taken in a manner that I had an issue with specific players and even the Drillers program. That is not the case at all. I apologised to Driller directly and I will say again that I am sorry I came across that way. In one of the posts I made the statement that I have no issue with any of the kids. They are just trying to play ball doing the best they can. I also do not have an issue with the Drillers baseball program. "Driller" has a long history of developing great talent and I have the upmost respect for what he and his players have accomplished.
However, I do not apologise for, or change my stance on anything that I said about the Kellam baseball program.
However, I do not apologise for, or change my stance on anything that I said about the Kellam baseball program.
It seemed that your problem with the Kellam baseball program was Drillers getting preferential treatment, including being on the Varsity team when you did not feel they belonged. Is that issue now gone? If so, what is your complaint still about the Kellam program?
Like matthews41 and blue marlin, I don't have a dog in the fight but am trying to understand the complaint.
Like matthews41 and blue marlin, I don't have a dog in the fight but am trying to understand the complaint.
Wow, this thread looks just like the one about the Grassfield program. It's another parent with "reliable information" calling out a presumably respectable coach for not playing upperclassmen who have "busted their butts". What goes for coach Todd is the same for coach Jones, they have both shown themselves to be quality coaches who put competitive teams on the field. As for Kellam's season, what would the KC Royals look like if Greinke went down? Pitchers are even MORE important at the high school level.
No one should be surprised by underclassmen getting time over upper classmen particularly in deep programs. Any deep program has 25-30 players in it.
If you are not a clear cut starter as a junior then the sophmore or freshman is taking your spot. At the strongest programs you rarely see teams that are starting 6-7 or more players from a single class. Every year these programs have 4-5 seniors 4-5 juniors and a few Soph's or freshman making contributions.
Also please get this point. Generally Coaches really don't care much about your son beyond can he help him win. If you think otherwise the drug test should be for you not your son.
If you are not a clear cut starter as a junior then the sophmore or freshman is taking your spot. At the strongest programs you rarely see teams that are starting 6-7 or more players from a single class. Every year these programs have 4-5 seniors 4-5 juniors and a few Soph's or freshman making contributions.
Also please get this point. Generally Coaches really don't care much about your son beyond can he help him win. If you think otherwise the drug test should be for you not your son.
quote:
However, I do not apologise for, or change my stance on anything that I said about the Kellam baseball program.
Whats your problem with the Kellam baseball program if you dont have any problems with the Drillers? I'm curious to hear what the problem is now...
I really dont understand why you are so interested in what goes on at Kellam if your son doesnt go there. or does he...
quote:Originally posted by luv baseball:
...Also please get this point. Generally Coaches really don't care much about your son beyond can he help him win. If you think otherwise the drug test should be for you not your son.
Obviously, you've been around the wrong group of coaches. The one's I've been associated with (in all sports) all care a great deal about those players/athletes in their program. I've seen them holding back tears of joy at their individual successes and many will go to great lengths to help athletes in their careers beyond the HS level...even those that didn't necessarily play in their programs. For the most part, your jaded view is completely wrong. It takes a special person to be a coach. Those that don't care about the kids don't last too long
Chris,
I agree. I know Coach Jones is one of those guys.
I agree. I know Coach Jones is one of those guys.
No doubt about that.
Chris you are absolutely right. High school sports demand alot of time and committment. Coaches want to succeed and yes, they do care about their players or they wouldnt be coaching. Athletes know the best coaches listen and communicate goals for the team and the individual.
quote:Originally posted by Chris Taylor:quote:Originally posted by luv baseball:
...Also please get this point. Generally Coaches really don't care much about your son beyond can he help him win. If you think otherwise the drug test should be for you not your son.
Obviously, you've been around the wrong group of coaches. The one's I've been associated with (in all sports) all care a great deal about those players/athletes in their program. I've seen them holding back tears of joy at their individual successes and many will go to great lengths to help athletes in their careers beyond the HS level...even those that didn't necessarily play in their programs. For the most part, your jaded view is completely wrong. It takes a special person to be a coach. Those that don't care about the kids don't last too long
Thanks shutumdown.
Jaded or cynical are a fair characterization. No doubt there are coaches out there doing the right thing as well. I did not say all but I do believe the majority fit my discription. I have coached and fully apreciate the sacrifices people make to do that job.
The context of the comment came from the string about the churn of upperclassmen in favor of underclassmen and travel ball. IMO it is indisputable that coaches do and always will do what it takes to win. The string makes it clear I am not alone in that view. So if that means burying Jr's and Sr's in favor of Freshman it will happen regardless of how import the HS baseball experiance is to those players and their families.
My view is still the same until a few things happen:
1 No coaches throwing kids 150 pitch games or 200 pitches in 3 day tournament for the glory of a district, regional or other title.
2 It is a priority to be loyal to kids in the program and allow them to have the HS baseball experiance if there is an equally talented player 2 classes below them. Even if it costs a few W's.
3 There are no negative commments from coaches about a players ability or performance that other players can hear.
It'll snow on the equater in Brazil before these things happen. Of this I am certain.
The context of the comment came from the string about the churn of upperclassmen in favor of underclassmen and travel ball. IMO it is indisputable that coaches do and always will do what it takes to win. The string makes it clear I am not alone in that view. So if that means burying Jr's and Sr's in favor of Freshman it will happen regardless of how import the HS baseball experiance is to those players and their families.
My view is still the same until a few things happen:
1 No coaches throwing kids 150 pitch games or 200 pitches in 3 day tournament for the glory of a district, regional or other title.
2 It is a priority to be loyal to kids in the program and allow them to have the HS baseball experiance if there is an equally talented player 2 classes below them. Even if it costs a few W's.
3 There are no negative commments from coaches about a players ability or performance that other players can hear.
It'll snow on the equater in Brazil before these things happen. Of this I am certain.
Luv Baseball,
That is a much more appropriate way to get your point across. I would have to agree with your 3 issues. The only item that hasn't been discussed is the fact that these hs coaches are still high school coaches. Mostly they are teachers with a stipend to coach a sport. Their primary function is not coaching, in fact, if that was primary, most wouldn't be able to just coach. People can argue all day, but your 3 points are a hit. And one more and you get a grand slam!
How about, you very rarely ever hear about a coach in high school getting "fired" from their baseball coaching job because of not winning. Even if they have had losing seasons most of their careers. Some may quit, but rarely fired.
Do they all want to win, absolutely, but the question is, will they win with the best interest of each and every player?
That is a much more appropriate way to get your point across. I would have to agree with your 3 issues. The only item that hasn't been discussed is the fact that these hs coaches are still high school coaches. Mostly they are teachers with a stipend to coach a sport. Their primary function is not coaching, in fact, if that was primary, most wouldn't be able to just coach. People can argue all day, but your 3 points are a hit. And one more and you get a grand slam!
How about, you very rarely ever hear about a coach in high school getting "fired" from their baseball coaching job because of not winning. Even if they have had losing seasons most of their careers. Some may quit, but rarely fired.
Do they all want to win, absolutely, but the question is, will they win with the best interest of each and every player?
I really wasn't trying to be provocative although to the point to be sure. If I made my case better the 2nd go around that's a good thing. Thank you.
Funny how the Pilot sort of hits this topic today.
Enjoy the games everyone!
Funny how the Pilot sort of hits this topic today.
Enjoy the games everyone!
High school coaches are rarely fired, but don't think for a second that "performance" doesn't play a part in a coach leaving a program. Unlike a college or professional program, high school coaches must deal with parents and "boosters" on a daily basis. Based on some of the comments I've read about GREAT baseball coaches in the area, I imagine those things are a key factor in an "underperforming" coach "leaving". As mentioned before, there is NO MONEY in coaching high school sports, yet the time dedicated and headaches are often the same as in a college program. Parents ALWAYS look at another program from a distance and think, "I wish my kid could play for a coach like (fill in the blank)".
Luv, I read your criteria for a "quality" coach, and I will say this... There has NEVER been a perfect coach. Because judging talent is subjective, two people can look at "equally talented" kids and form two different opinions. It, in my opinion, is a reasonable argument to make, that an equally talented underclassman be given the benefit of the doubt because the upside is higher with a younger kid. Most coaches will split time in this scenario. We do. As for the "no negative comments" rule, that is a pipe dream. Berating and disrespecting a kid is one thing, but no negative comments other kids can hear? I guess you would have no problem with a coach pulling a kid off the field in the middle of an inning for making an error (embarrasing him), as long as nothing negative was said, but you WOULD have a problem with yelling at a kid for not hustling where everyone can hear (embarrassing him), right? Sometimes, unless you've got perfect kids (they don't exist), raising one's voice is necessary. As a parent or outsider, you don't often know the history behind the kid and the coach. Ask the kids, they know. I have had a player get in my face and talk back to me when I called for a pinch runner for him, and he was a pitcher in the midst of a no-hitter! He was an 18 year old "kid", by the way. I often joke with kids, you'll know when a coach STOPS caring about you when he STOPS fussing at you. The vast majority of coaches do it for the kids. Don't let one apple spoil the bunch, and say what you want... This topic started because someone criticized St. Claire Jones... Really? No one's above reproach, but come on! I'll be a martyr and take his place. It's a much more legitimate argument now.
Luv, I read your criteria for a "quality" coach, and I will say this... There has NEVER been a perfect coach. Because judging talent is subjective, two people can look at "equally talented" kids and form two different opinions. It, in my opinion, is a reasonable argument to make, that an equally talented underclassman be given the benefit of the doubt because the upside is higher with a younger kid. Most coaches will split time in this scenario. We do. As for the "no negative comments" rule, that is a pipe dream. Berating and disrespecting a kid is one thing, but no negative comments other kids can hear? I guess you would have no problem with a coach pulling a kid off the field in the middle of an inning for making an error (embarrasing him), as long as nothing negative was said, but you WOULD have a problem with yelling at a kid for not hustling where everyone can hear (embarrassing him), right? Sometimes, unless you've got perfect kids (they don't exist), raising one's voice is necessary. As a parent or outsider, you don't often know the history behind the kid and the coach. Ask the kids, they know. I have had a player get in my face and talk back to me when I called for a pinch runner for him, and he was a pitcher in the midst of a no-hitter! He was an 18 year old "kid", by the way. I often joke with kids, you'll know when a coach STOPS caring about you when he STOPS fussing at you. The vast majority of coaches do it for the kids. Don't let one apple spoil the bunch, and say what you want... This topic started because someone criticized St. Claire Jones... Really? No one's above reproach, but come on! I'll be a martyr and take his place. It's a much more legitimate argument now.
Captain,
I am not commenting about any specific coach or situation.
The notion that most get into it "for the kids" makes a great sound bite but IMO doesn't square with reality entirely.
IMO it is more likely the majority of coaches go into coaching because they played the game, love the game and want to be around the game. Umpiring is a non starter and the playing days are over so into coaching they go. These are competitive individuals that generally experianced personal sucess playing and want to be in the action. They will take low pay and do the hours to be in it just like when they played and no doubt along the way develop affinity for kids. Especailly D1 prospects!
As far as player/coach interaction; Is there much doubt things are routinely said (actual words and the tone) by coaches (all sports) in practices, halftime lockerrooms and during games to "motivate" players that would not fly in the US History class Monday morning. So if it does not work in class at 11AM it can't work at practice at 5PM. No rationale is acceptable on that one or the pitch counts.
I promise to let this go now. Enjoy the games!
I am not commenting about any specific coach or situation.
The notion that most get into it "for the kids" makes a great sound bite but IMO doesn't square with reality entirely.
IMO it is more likely the majority of coaches go into coaching because they played the game, love the game and want to be around the game. Umpiring is a non starter and the playing days are over so into coaching they go. These are competitive individuals that generally experianced personal sucess playing and want to be in the action. They will take low pay and do the hours to be in it just like when they played and no doubt along the way develop affinity for kids. Especailly D1 prospects!
As far as player/coach interaction; Is there much doubt things are routinely said (actual words and the tone) by coaches (all sports) in practices, halftime lockerrooms and during games to "motivate" players that would not fly in the US History class Monday morning. So if it does not work in class at 11AM it can't work at practice at 5PM. No rationale is acceptable on that one or the pitch counts.
I promise to let this go now. Enjoy the games!
First Colonial - 7
Kellam - 5
WP - Lawson
FC scored 5 in the top of the 7th on some hits and some errors. Tough loss for Kellam's young squad. Turner Bishop pitched well for Kellam...needed some help in the field.
FC got two key extra-base hits in the 7th from Ryan Stollard and Connor Parker.
Kellam - 5
WP - Lawson
FC scored 5 in the top of the 7th on some hits and some errors. Tough loss for Kellam's young squad. Turner Bishop pitched well for Kellam...needed some help in the field.
FC got two key extra-base hits in the 7th from Ryan Stollard and Connor Parker.