Even though this is my first year as a HS baseball parent I have “been around the block” a few times. Both my wife and I were HS athletes. Our daughter, when in HS, played varsity s****r, basketball and volleyball. So, I have some point(s) of reference.
Here are just a few points;
- Parents who complain to the coach about playing time or position assignments.
Talking to other parents from other programs it seems like every coach has made it clear that playing time issues are between the coach and the player. Players, for the most part, know who should be playing where on a team. Given time most coaches do a good job figuring it out.
- The same parents who, after not getting any satisfaction with the coach, present their case to the administration.
This is bush league! The coach, in most situations, is doing what is best for the team and your son. If you have no faith or a lack of trust in the coach why have your son under his supervision at all? Go play somewhere else. If the coach is doing something immoral, illegal or is a danger to those he is responsible for, by all means, call somebody. BUT, if you (and maybe a couple of the other players parents who are “not playing as much as they should”) are just unhappy about the way the team is being managed think twice about whining to the coach’s boss. Maybe your time would be better spent encouraging your son.
- Parents who complain about their son getting shortchanged yet do not hold him, the player, responsible.
Parents, for the most part, are always looking past the player when assigning blame for any perceived (or real) shortcomings. The player knows what is expected of him. The player knows, or should know, what is expected of him. During the season, off season whatever, a baseball player/athlete always has something to do to get better. It is the player’s responsibility, do not attempt to blame anyone else.
- Parents who undermine coaches (and teachers)
As parents we entrust our children to others for instruction, training or care. It is so incredibly counterproductive for a parent to criticize a teacher or coach. The parent will seldom understand the situation as it effects all of the dimensions that the coach or teacher must address. It is my opinion that, as a parent, we must support the teachers and coaches, who are often the same people in dual roles. A lack of respect for others, specifically those in a position of authority, whether it be a coach, a policeman or the clerk at the local 7-11 is a major concern of our society. Show some respect for others and the jobs they have to do!
Finally... Coaches generally have about 15 players to take care of. As a parent we usually have ONE. It is easy for a parent to focus on the injustice that is showered upon their son without understanding the concept of team development or individual responsibility. As our children grow up and enter the job market they will find many of the same pitfalls that they must address as players on a HS team. Let them work out their problems now so they can do so later. Give them love, support and guidance but let them work it out. They will be much better off as adults.
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