Perhaps one of the purest joys in America is the joy of seeing kids play baseball. As they learn about hard work, teamwork, and good sportsmanship, what a blessing that I get to be part of something so wonderfully fulfilling. However, one of the saddest things is to see success hungry coaches attempt to live or relive their own selfish dreams vicariously through the kids on their team. They make baseball miserable, yelling at kids for honest mistakes and embarrassing them in front of their teammates, using such guilt as a motivation to be better. But, really, things only get worse. I’ve personally watched plenty of children over several years of playing baseball; how they started out loving the game. But when their parents or dad make things way too serious, they spoiled the child’s perception of a beautiful game. Certainly, kids should be taught how to win. But, we’ve come to focus way too much on the results…and not the means to get there. Good lesson for life, don’t you think?
SRay
July 28th, 2005 at 6:10 am
I understand completly what you are saying, I do however feel that there is a balance…I’m just not sure where that fine line is. I think that coaches SHOULD be “hard” on there kids- to a certain extent of course. Just letting them goof off all the time is not teaching them discipline but it also depends on what age group you’re dealing with. My brother played baseball from age 4 until he graduated college, so TRUST be I’ve seen the wrath of coaches/parents and understand how it all works. I’ve gotta get to my EasyMac which is beeping at me in the microwave! Love ya~Elizabeth
July 28th, 2005 at 2:23 pm
There is definitely a difference between an encourager and a coach… But I think the best balance would be right in the middle some where. Anyway, have a great rest of the week! :O)
July 29th, 2005 at 10:38 am
Dear Stephen!
Hey! I really need your encouraging words now! You are always so helpful if you could just pray for me in this difficult time of depression. God Bless! Janie
July 31st, 2005 at 9:39 pm
Hey Stephen hows it goin’ playa?
Super Series was quite an event and we all enjoyed ourselves. You did a swell job out there in the field and only made one bad call (transfer in right field….yeah you know the one), but it was fun. It was a blast to have you out there and I know I had fun. Maybe someday I’ll be umpin’ out there with you but probably not. Anyway I’ll probably be filling up your website with random notes that may scare you so be warned.
I’m out pimpin’
Cam-dizzle