[eightball6]

I don't have a child playing ball now, mine are adults and have children of their own. But, I am a grandmother and I go to the grade school games. One of the concerns that I have is the message that our children are being sent. I know that we like to win, but I also know we have got to learn to take defeat. I don't think anyone enjoys watching those grade schooler's play ball anymore than I do. I clap when they do good, I moan when they do bad. It doesn't matter which team it is. If the opposing side makes a great play I can congratulate that child. The only way children are going to learn is by participation and practice. The lower grades are where they are to get their training for high school. I watched kids play who don't know the mere fundamentals of the game, all they're being taught to do is run and shoot. I've seen coaches tell the four other players don't shoot the ball pass it to so and so. Well so and so has been having off nights lately, and surprise, surprise, a player who hardly got any play, has suddenly become this very capable ball player. We played Betsy Layne grade school (whom I think is a great coach) and after the regulation game, they added minutes so the kids who didn't play had a chance to get some playing time. I think it's time to think about the children and what they need, instead of the parents, fans and coaches and what they want. REMEMBER THE CHILDREN.