One thing is for sure 00's Dad has never coached a team in his life or he wouldn't value noncomformity so much more than respect for authority, or putting the team first.
quote:Originally posted by 00'sDAD:
It's not a matter of wanting to play.
It absolutely is about not wanting to play! Any kid smart enough to take 3 AP classes before their Jr year of HS (do they even allow that?) is smart enough to know how teams work and the consequences of nonconformity. He's taking college level courses. He knows EXACTLY what he's doing. In fact, what he is doing is VERY college level. Question Authority and all that. If he doesn't get his haircut, he's telling you he doesn't want to be on a team, that he's ready to be an individual in the world. So what? Stop wasting your money on travel ball and team sports and let him go be himself. There are probably a dozen guys lined up with shavers in hand ready to take his spot on the team.
The penquin is for all the snow and bad weather and it just looks cool to me. Other than that awesome post.
I must say, I was disappointed with Woody's advice in this thread. The good news is that itsinthegame stepped up and filled the void 
Yes he did!
Is this guy related to the rich guy who came on here a few months ago with a 9 year old who hit 85 mph pitching?
I'm reading this thread with amusement as it is two days before tryouts and today my son came home from the barbers with his baseball buzzcut. I HATE it! His coach doesn't require it, but he does it anyway as do all the varsity players. Why does he do it? It seems to be a matter of respect for his team mates and for the game of baseball.
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It's a team effort CD...we've got a good one!
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It's a team effort CD...we've got a good one!
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quote:Originally posted by gotwood4sale:
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It's a team effort CD...we've got a good one!
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Just kidding Woodrow
quote:I'm reading this thread with amusement as it is two days before tryouts and today my son came home from the barbers with his baseball buzzcut. I HATE it! His coach doesn't require it, but he does it anyway as do all the varsity players. Why does he do it? It seems to be a matter of respect for his team mates and for the game of baseball.
Mine does it because he has refined the art of rolling out of bed and getting out of the house within 10 minutes each morning.
Maybe now that we have given our advice on what the young man should do, perhaps people can chime in on some suggested hair styles that may be suitable.
Here's one possibility:
Here's one possibility:
One of my most favorite fictional quotes of all time from the book Lonesome Dove...
Gus McCrae's last words to Captain Woodrow Call:
"By God, Woodrow; it's been one hell of a party."
Gus McCrae's last words to Captain Woodrow Call:
"By God, Woodrow; it's been one hell of a party."
Is this an all time record? 1400 views and almost 100 posts in a 6 hour window. Gotta hand it 00sDAD for striking a nerve.
One thing to understand is that we're not getting into whether the coach should or should not have set this policy.
Personally, I would say there comes a point where a kid might be seeking attention for himself to the detriment of a team, if he's doing something truly outlandish or overtly attention-seeking. As a coach I would have a talk to that kid and if necessary set some limits, being prepared to enforce them as necessary. But beyond that, generally I don't think as a coach that I should care how a kid wears his hair. That's between him and his parents, IMHO.
But that's just me.
Whoever was in charge in this situation made this particular fellow the head coach. And while he runs his team differently than I might have, I'm not the one who was given the authority to run the team. And neither were any of the players, nor any of their parents.
Unless he's doing something untoward, threatening someone's health or well being, or arbitrarily damaging someone's future, he's allowed to run the team as he sees fit. And who's to say that the team unity of conservative haircuts might not help the team perform better as a team? It sure has worked for the Yankees. And at a lot of other places, like maybe West Point, USNA, VMI, etc.
Personally, I would say there comes a point where a kid might be seeking attention for himself to the detriment of a team, if he's doing something truly outlandish or overtly attention-seeking. As a coach I would have a talk to that kid and if necessary set some limits, being prepared to enforce them as necessary. But beyond that, generally I don't think as a coach that I should care how a kid wears his hair. That's between him and his parents, IMHO.
But that's just me.
Whoever was in charge in this situation made this particular fellow the head coach. And while he runs his team differently than I might have, I'm not the one who was given the authority to run the team. And neither were any of the players, nor any of their parents.
Unless he's doing something untoward, threatening someone's health or well being, or arbitrarily damaging someone's future, he's allowed to run the team as he sees fit. And who's to say that the team unity of conservative haircuts might not help the team perform better as a team? It sure has worked for the Yankees. And at a lot of other places, like maybe West Point, USNA, VMI, etc.
quote:Originally posted by threeboysdad:
Wrong battle, just cut it
3boyzdad,
Hey, the dog wants to make a statement...a rather sickening one, but a statement all the same...
quote:Originally posted by Coach_May:
Coach I dont want to get a hair cut.
No problem turn your stuff in.
Coach my son doesnt feel like its fair.
No problem have a nice spring.
Coach as a school board member you need to reinstate the player.
No problem I resign.
Your son DOES NOT WANT TO PLAY.
If he did HE WOULD GET A HAIR CUT.
What else?
CM,
That is one of the best rolls I have ever seen anyone go on...
Instant classic, my friend, instant.
Thank you, I only wish it could keep going....Dang that was funny.
Nice points Midlo. I have changed some over the years. When I first started coaching it was high and tight and no facial hair. Now its no hair over your ears and hanging down to your collar. As long as its neat and not out of control I dont have a problem with it. The players though have their own rules. The seniors buzz their hair and they tell the other varsity guys thats the rule. And everyone falls in line. Now if one of those guys doesnt want to do it I am fine with that. But no one has gone against the seniors.
If you run a program right and you bring your players up in the program properly you dont have to worry about this type of stuff. Its a non issue. They police themselves. I never have to say anything about hustling on and off the field. Field prep before or after practice. Working hard in the cage or getting after it. How to wear your hat or your uniform. The guys that have invested in the program and take ownership in their program take care of that stuff.
Most kids want to be a part of a team if they are on a team. They want to be a part of something. I just dont have kids who want to be on a team and then dont want to be a part of a team. To me there is nothing more special than being part of something bigger than you. Being part of something special. If you want to be an individual then being on a team is the last place you should be. Its like mixing oil with water.
If you run a program right and you bring your players up in the program properly you dont have to worry about this type of stuff. Its a non issue. They police themselves. I never have to say anything about hustling on and off the field. Field prep before or after practice. Working hard in the cage or getting after it. How to wear your hat or your uniform. The guys that have invested in the program and take ownership in their program take care of that stuff.
Most kids want to be a part of a team if they are on a team. They want to be a part of something. I just dont have kids who want to be on a team and then dont want to be a part of a team. To me there is nothing more special than being part of something bigger than you. Being part of something special. If you want to be an individual then being on a team is the last place you should be. Its like mixing oil with water.
Lots of kids grow beards to intimidate the younger guys.
What an interesting thread...
No one has mentioned this, but you should know that kids who stand out are also the targets of much abuse from fans and opposing teams. Is that also alright with you? How about with your son? Most teenagers don't like to stand out like that. Will it be distracting to his teammates? Could it possibly affect their play? Does that matter to you or him?
I applaud your son for being a smart kid who is proud of his long mane. But that is not the issue. If he is so smart he should have thought about this more thoroughly and seen that he doesn't really want to play baseball anymore. If he does, get a haircut, wear his uniform right, and play baseball. What a silly thing to argue about.
No one has mentioned this, but you should know that kids who stand out are also the targets of much abuse from fans and opposing teams. Is that also alright with you? How about with your son? Most teenagers don't like to stand out like that. Will it be distracting to his teammates? Could it possibly affect their play? Does that matter to you or him?
I applaud your son for being a smart kid who is proud of his long mane. But that is not the issue. If he is so smart he should have thought about this more thoroughly and seen that he doesn't really want to play baseball anymore. If he does, get a haircut, wear his uniform right, and play baseball. What a silly thing to argue about.
quote:Originally posted by Vicarious Dad:
Lots of kids grow beards to intimidate the younger guys.
I know I did...it never worked though. It didn't come in very well until I was 31. Up until then, I had 7 chest hairs...they were all named.
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- 1. Sneezy
2. Sleepy
3. Dopey
4. Doc
5. Happy
6. Bashful
7. Grumpy
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Interesting thread, but I cannot believe it has gotten this much play, as it is really a simple issue. Playing high school sports is a privilege, not a right. Therefore, if you want to avail yourself of the privilege of being on the baseball team, you will conform to the rules established to be a member of the team. If you don't want to conform, no problem, DON'T BE ON THE TEAM! Simple as that.
I don't think the young man in question wants to be on the team, or even keep playing baseball past his travel team time. If he did, he'd learn a lesson taht thousands of college players know, which is that no matter how much you may disagree with the coaches rules, you'll abide by them if you want to stay in the program. High school really isn't different.
I don't think the young man in question wants to be on the team, or even keep playing baseball past his travel team time. If he did, he'd learn a lesson taht thousands of college players know, which is that no matter how much you may disagree with the coaches rules, you'll abide by them if you want to stay in the program. High school really isn't different.
I'm jumping in a little late, I've been away from my computer today. Strange topic, I never thought I'd see so many responses regarding the length of hair? But I'm blown away that a School Board would step in and over-rule a Head Baseball Coach? If the kid really wants to play, he'll cut his hair just like the other players on the roster. If he doesn't care about playing, he shouldn't cut his hair.
I read the numerous threads on HSBBW and I always tend to pay closer attention to certain members (Old Timers), as I'm sure other do. If Coach May runs his program as well as the advice that he gives on this site, I'd venture to say that his baseball team's are pretty successful annually!
I read the numerous threads on HSBBW and I always tend to pay closer attention to certain members (Old Timers), as I'm sure other do. If Coach May runs his program as well as the advice that he gives on this site, I'd venture to say that his baseball team's are pretty successful annually!
Definitely an interesting thread...Our son's HS coach has about the same approach as Coach May...and his seniors make sure the underclass knows what he expects as part of the team (Varsity or JV)...Hair better be neat and reasonably short...My son's freshman year the coach was kidding one of the seniors about his hair, knowing the kid would be trimming it before the season. He also joked about my son's hair, telling him he needed a trim too. My son's hair has basically never been any longer than a #3 buzz (his choice), but he made sure to get the #2 before tryouts started. He did the same last year by his choice and I'm sure it is coming this year too! He's got a touch of facial hair and has already said he's leaving it until right before tryouts.
I'm a bit confused as to how you're going to show your son the thread to get his reaction AND not let him know about the school board thing...
My younger son likes his hair long and probably would choose not to cut or trim it for years in a row if we didn't make him keep it reasonably neat. And, he has always requested a good buzz before baseball season...
I'm not sure if I'd MAKE him cut his hair, but I certainly would discuss it with him and allow him to make a choice between a hair cut and playing baseball (not just HS). I like the idea of getting involved with St. Baldrick's if he decides to go for the hair cut...a good way to conform, make a statement AND do it for a good cause. I'd also be sure that the coach was his first stop in asking for a donation!
I'm a bit confused as to how you're going to show your son the thread to get his reaction AND not let him know about the school board thing...
My younger son likes his hair long and probably would choose not to cut or trim it for years in a row if we didn't make him keep it reasonably neat. And, he has always requested a good buzz before baseball season...
I'm not sure if I'd MAKE him cut his hair, but I certainly would discuss it with him and allow him to make a choice between a hair cut and playing baseball (not just HS). I like the idea of getting involved with St. Baldrick's if he decides to go for the hair cut...a good way to conform, make a statement AND do it for a good cause. I'd also be sure that the coach was his first stop in asking for a donation!
This is all very strange. I get the strong sense that such a player probably has as much chance of making his team worse than making it better.
If you take away the need for him to rebel, he won't. Maybe he's just trying to control something in his life?
Don't get confused with this being a statement about him being a man. He lives in a society and wants an occupation in a very structured environment. Understanding what it takes to compete and survive in that kind of environment is part of being a man.
Allow him to do it BUT warn him of the consequences that HE will be bringing on HIMSELF by not conforming to a team. Better that he learns this lesson now than when he's trying to make it in the real world.
There are plenty of other ways to express your individualism. That's what cars are for!
Don't get confused with this being a statement about him being a man. He lives in a society and wants an occupation in a very structured environment. Understanding what it takes to compete and survive in that kind of environment is part of being a man.
Allow him to do it BUT warn him of the consequences that HE will be bringing on HIMSELF by not conforming to a team. Better that he learns this lesson now than when he's trying to make it in the real world.
There are plenty of other ways to express your individualism. That's what cars are for!
quote:Originally posted by CPLZ:quote:Originally posted by Vicarious Dad:
Lots of kids grow beards to intimidate the younger guys.
I know I did...it never worked though. It didn't come in very well until I was 31. Up until then, I had 7 chest hairs...they were all named.
...,he said as he wandered within spittin' distance of (TMI) too much information.
quote:Originally posted by gotwood4sale:
.1. Sneezy
2. Sleepy
3. Dopey
4. Doc
5. Happy
6. Bashful
7. Grumpy
.
quote:Originally posted by ClevelandDad:
Maybe now that we have given our advice on what the young man should do, perhaps people can chime in on some suggested hair styles that may be suitable.
You're right CD!
The only problem I see is how to get the batting helmet on...
Maybe they can compromise. Business in the front. Party in the back.
One of my first posts four years ago asked a question that goes something like this..."if the HS coach tells my son to change how he hits, can we tell him he's not changing." Something to that effect.
Coach May responded, "I sure hope you and your son play for a team other than mine."
That response bothered me and I've learned a lot about baseball, myself and my son in the past four years.
Youth baseball has the ability to teach our boys so many valuable things about life.
How to deal with superiors (bosses and coaches)
How to deal with peers (co-workers and teammates)
How to deal with rules (we ALL have to go by the rules)
How to deal with adversity
How to deal with success
I'm sure there are many more "how to's" that could go here.
When I was in high school, the rule was hair over the ears and off the collar. This rule was combined with no chewing tobacco, keep up grades, etc. There was no option. You go by the rules or you don't play.
I'm sorry that you don't like the rule. But it's not a rule that jeopardizes the health and safety of the players. It's one of proper appearance and respect.
Get a haircut or go play socker.
Coach May responded, "I sure hope you and your son play for a team other than mine."
That response bothered me and I've learned a lot about baseball, myself and my son in the past four years.
Youth baseball has the ability to teach our boys so many valuable things about life.
How to deal with superiors (bosses and coaches)
How to deal with peers (co-workers and teammates)
How to deal with rules (we ALL have to go by the rules)
How to deal with adversity
How to deal with success
I'm sure there are many more "how to's" that could go here.
When I was in high school, the rule was hair over the ears and off the collar. This rule was combined with no chewing tobacco, keep up grades, etc. There was no option. You go by the rules or you don't play.
I'm sorry that you don't like the rule. But it's not a rule that jeopardizes the health and safety of the players. It's one of proper appearance and respect.
Get a haircut or go play socker.
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This guy? Batting helmet? He'll need a dozen or so of these...
The question is how many boxes do you keep in the dugout/concession stand for him? They're fragile and easily broken so I would imagine that he'll need more than one set for each game. Will the Boosters cover the cost?
Oh, and they're tasty. Certainly the team will lose some merely by his teammates snacking on them in the dugout. The dugout, of course, will be very loud..."I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!"
Keebler© Ice Cream Waffle Cones
It could happen.
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This guy? Batting helmet? He'll need a dozen or so of these...
The question is how many boxes do you keep in the dugout/concession stand for him? They're fragile and easily broken so I would imagine that he'll need more than one set for each game. Will the Boosters cover the cost?
Oh, and they're tasty. Certainly the team will lose some merely by his teammates snacking on them in the dugout. The dugout, of course, will be very loud..."I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!"
Keebler© Ice Cream Waffle Cones
- Price: $15.68 for 12-Count Boxes (Pack of 6)
In Stock.
Severe Weather Alert: Due to winter storms on the East Coast of the United States, many packages will be delayed.
It could happen.
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You have a son who has great grades, wants to be a doctor, works and saves his money....
I think you should pick and choose your battles.
If he is willing to give up hs baseball to keep his long hair, so be it. Advise him and respect his choice.
I think you should pick and choose your battles.
If he is willing to give up hs baseball to keep his long hair, so be it. Advise him and respect his choice.
NJBB
"Advise him and respect his Choice"
I agree. Many 16-18 year olds want to make their own decisions. Treat me Like an Adult. Okay, then you have to get both sides of "treat me like an adult"
I would give him my advice. If he choose to not cut his hair, then I would also expect him to play for his travel team baseball. Sound like he has already paid for his car, so let him him pay for his summer ball.
I agree with many that it sounds like he is not that interested in playing baseball, because if he would he would cut off a lot more than just his hair to play.
Sound like the young man has made his decision. Wanting to be a future doctor is great, i just hope he realizes that in just about anything he chooses to do in life he is going to have some kind of rules that he will have to conform to, unless I guess he wins the lottery.
I agree. Many 16-18 year olds want to make their own decisions. Treat me Like an Adult. Okay, then you have to get both sides of "treat me like an adult"
I would give him my advice. If he choose to not cut his hair, then I would also expect him to play for his travel team baseball. Sound like he has already paid for his car, so let him him pay for his summer ball.
I agree with many that it sounds like he is not that interested in playing baseball, because if he would he would cut off a lot more than just his hair to play.
Sound like the young man has made his decision. Wanting to be a future doctor is great, i just hope he realizes that in just about anything he chooses to do in life he is going to have some kind of rules that he will have to conform to, unless I guess he wins the lottery.
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I almost forgot...
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What are the school colors?
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I almost forgot...
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What are the school colors?
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The ice cream cones are kinda cool, but as you said GW, fragile...and we can't have anyone getting hurt.
Additionally, the distraction caused in the dugout by all the ice cream cones, team chantings for ice cream and such would not be conducive to winning...
Therefore, for safety reasons, I would suggest stuffing the spike into a cone...a conehead helmet! Check this out...
Additionally, the distraction caused in the dugout by all the ice cream cones, team chantings for ice cream and such would not be conducive to winning...
Therefore, for safety reasons, I would suggest stuffing the spike into a cone...a conehead helmet! Check this out...
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Why not?
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- "...and we can't have anyone getting hurt."
Why not?
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Well, you're right...the fact is feelings have been hurt here and that could last a lifetime!
Growing up my dad had one basic rule--"as long as you live in my house you play by my rules"---that was the way it was--no questions asked
The same goes for being on the team--the coach and his rules are king--if you do not like it then you don't have to be there
The same goes for being on the team--the coach and his rules are king--if you do not like it then you don't have to be there