You are NOT going to believe this

[foxman]

So, my oldest son's baseball coach who is a family physician has a team meeting to discuss some behavior and respect issues. Let me frame this a bit. This guys is a very passive, technical guy who has never raised his voice once and never shown any type of discipline like making the team run or anything like that. He has chosen to lecture.....snooze fest.

So, we have 12 reasonably good kids who would make a good football team but not the best baseball team. Add to that the fact that it is my opinion that we have a few guys in the wrong positions and you have the recipe for a disastrous season....and we are 2 and whatever on the season. So, one of the children on the team which is made up of 9-12 year olds says "man we suck"

The coach calls a meeting on the edge of the outfield at practice to lecture and during his lecture he asks "Does anybody know the definition of the word suck?" So, inspite of common sense and the few boys raising their hands, he stated that the word suck meant putting someone's privates in your mouth.

I was on the field and present to this conversation since I have helped out when there. Shocked, I said nothing. Since that time I have talked with a couple of parents and have been in touch with the board and they requested a letter in writing so as to not go by word of mouth (no pun intended).

The following post is my response.....thoughts?

[foxman]

Deleted

[Hog's Gone Fishin]

Why didn't you go kick his ass!!!!!!!!!!!????????

[Easy 6]

I bet several of those kids already knew what it meant, but that doesnt mean the coach should be repeating it.

Sexual innuendo has no place in youth athletics.

Nuthooks for coach.

[Hog's Gone Fishin]

That was a good letter, but I'd still go kick his ass!

[ClevelandBronco]

The coach is discussing inappropriate concepts with 9-12 year olds. He should be reprimanded.

On the other hand, my son is a week from 13 and if I hear him say that anything "sucks," he'll be sorry.

[chasedude]

<cite>American Heritage Dictionary</cite> (http://dictionary.reference.com/help/ahd4.html) - Cite This Source (http://dictionary.reference.com/cite.html?qh=suck&ia=ahd4)<!-- google_ad_section_start(name=def) --> suck<script type="text/javascript"> // <![CDATA[ var interfaceflash = new LEXICOFlashObject ( "http://cache.lexico.com/d/g/speaker.swf", "speaker", "17", "18", "<img src=\"http://cache.lexico.com/g/d/speaker.gif\" border=\"0\" /> (http://www.chiefsplanet.com/BB/\&quot;http://dictionary.reference.com/audio.html/ahd4WAV/S0860900/suck\&quot;)", "6"); interfaceflash.addParam("loop", "false"); interfaceflash.addParam("quality", "high"); interfaceflash.addParam("menu", "false"); interfaceflash.addParam("salign", "t"); interfaceflash.addParam("FlashVars", "soundUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fcache.lexico.com%2Fdictionary%2Faudio%2Fahd4%2FS%2FS0860900.mp3"); interfaceflash.write(); // ]]> </script><noscript>http://cache.lexico.com/g/d/speaker.gif (http://dictionary.reference.com/audio.html/ahd4WAV/S0860900/suck)</noscript> Audio Help (http://dictionary.reference.com/help/audio.html) (sŭk) Pronunciation Key (http://cache.lexico.com/help/ahd4/pronkey.html)
<!--BOF_HEAD--><!--EOF_HEAD--><!--BOF_SUBHEAD--> v. sucked, suck·ing, sucks
<!--EOF_SUBHEAD--><!--BOF_DEF--><!--EOF_DEF-->
<!--BOF_HEAD--><!--EOF_HEAD--><!--BOF_SUBHEAD--> v. tr.
<!--EOF_SUBHEAD--> <!--BOF_DEF-->
To draw (liquid) into the mouth by movements of the tongue and lips that create suction.

To draw in by establishing a partial vacuum: a cleaning device that sucks up dirt.
To draw in by or as if by a current in a fluid.
To draw or pull as if by suction: teenagers who are sucked into a life of crime.
To draw nourishment through or from: suck a baby bottle.
To hold, moisten, or maneuver (a sweet, for example) in the mouth.
Vulgar Slang To perform fellatio on.<!--EOF_DEF--><!--BOF_HEAD--><!--EOF_HEAD--><!--BOF_SUBHEAD--> v. intr.
<!--EOF_SUBHEAD--> <!--BOF_DEF-->
To draw something in by or as if by suction: felt the drain starting to suck.
To draw nourishment; suckle.
To make a sound caused by suction.
Vulgar Slang To be disgustingly disagreeable or offensive.<!--EOF_DEF--><!--BOF_HEAD--><!--EOF_HEAD--> n. <!--BOF_DEF-->
The act or sound of sucking.
Suction.
Something drawn in by sucking.Hmmmm I think this coach was fantasizing about "sucking" young boys and not paying attention in class when this term came up.

[FAX]

Hmmm. My only comment is that I think you may be handling this a little too nicely, Mr. foxman.

This was a very strange, inappropriate, and troubling statement by the coach. Personally, I think he should be fired. Where there's smoke, there's fire ... and, sometimes, a smoldering gay man on the prowl.

FAX

[ClevelandBronco]

I bet several of those kids already knew what it meant, but that doesnt mean the coach should be repeating it.

Sexual innuendo has no place in youth athletics.

Nuthooks for coach.

I should have waited until today to rep you. Now I can't.

[sedated]

that letter sucks

[DJ's left nut]

I bet several of those kids already knew what it meant, but that doesnt mean the coach should be repeating it.

Sexual innuendo has no place in youth athletics.

Nuthooks for coach.

Inyourendo

[siberian khatru]

I bet the guy was Iranian.

[Easy 6]

Hmmm. My only comment is that I think you may be handling this a little too nicely, Mr. foxman.

This was a very strange, inappropriate, and troubling statement by the coach. Personally, I think he should be fired. Where there's smoke, there's fire ... and, sometimes, a smoldering gay man on the prowl.

FAX

You may be onto something here...does coach have the "Pedo Smile" Foxman???...


http://www.thebestpageintheuniverse.net/c.cgi?u=spot_the_pedo

[foxman]

that letter sucks

Gee, thanks.

I wanted to offer a beat down on the spot, but I was so shocked I really had about a million things going through my head at once.

I still can not understand why anyone would think this is acceptable to young boys/men.

[stumppy]

Why didn't you correct him yourself. In private of course. You could have pulled him to the side and said something like " UH...coach....I think you should know that when kids this age say something like that they mean the team is not any good. They are in no way making any type of sexual reference by using the word suck in this context."

[Chiefnj2]

You should have spoken with the coach first especially since you were present when it occurred.

[Hog's Gone Fishin]

Gee, thanks.

I wanted to offer a beat down on the spot, but I was so shocked I really had about a million things going through my head at once.

I still can not understand why anyone would think this is acceptable to young boys/men.


Well, that would be because HE'S A GHEY PEDOFILE. Kick his Ass!

[Hog's Gone Fishin]

It's a known fact that 50% of all coaches are ghey.

[Hog's Gone Fishin]

In case you decide to send the letter, here are a few suggestions if you consider this an important document:

1. Be more concise. Paragraph 2 isn't needed.
2. If you keep paragraph 2, the second sentence in this paragraph is a mess.
3. Cannot is one word.
4. Its = possessive, not it's
5. "However" isn't a conjunction. Almost all examples of ", however" are comma splices. Insert a period or a comma plus a conjunction (and, or, but, yet).


:LOL::LOL::LOL::LOL:

[Demonpenz]

It could mean suck eggs? As far as language man it's baseball. I remember when I wa sthat age trying tabacoo stealing porno mags and cussing it up.

[sedated]

It's a known fact that 50% of all coaches are ghey.

did your little league coach touch you in your 'special place'?

[kcxiv]

I would have told the kids, this is the word kick ass. I dont mind if people cuss, but to say what it actually meant was wrong. Then again, my nephew knows what it all is already and he's 10. lol Good kid though, he wont even cuss if i give him permission. I tried to see if he would say bad words, didnt happen. Although last year during his football season, he told some kid **** you, haha, but that was during intense football battles. Its forgiven.

[Valiant]

I think you are overreacting unless the guy seems like a pedophile.. Does he have his own kids.. Maybe he was describing what 'sucking' is to the boys so they never use the term on the field again.. You know trying to gross them out..

The other part of the letter is confusing on the weight issue.. Are all the boys fat for their age?? Are the weight limits set by the league or the coach?? If they are set by the league, why are you mad at him for strike two?? If they are set by the coach, then put the boy on another team..

[Valiant]

I would have told the kids, this is the word kick ass. I dont mind if people cuss, but to say what it actually meant was wrong. Then again, my nephew knows what it all is already and he's 10. lol Good kid though, he wont even cuss if i give him permission. I tried to see if he would say bad words, didnt happen. Although last year during his football season, he told some kid **** you, haha, but that was during intense football battles. Its forgiven.

Kids are amazing.. You can teach and teach words that they will never remember without a lot of studying.. But if you **** up once and let the cuss word out once it is somehow instant remembered.. My nephew is three, and I said shit once.. For the next 3 days he was saying that from what his mother said..

[foxman]

The other part of the letter is confusing on the weight issue.. Are all the boys fat for their age?? Are the weight limits set by the league or the coach?? If they are set by the league, why are you mad at him for strike two?? If they are set by the coach, then put the boy on another team..


Yeah, I didnt set that part up. Of the 12 kids 8 are probably over weight and the other 4 are about right. A couple of the big guys made a comment about being small and the coach started talking about the guys needed to loose weight so they could run faster and not get thrown out at first and then started guessing their weight.

Another discussion especially for the old self esteem.

[Chiefnj2]

If you don't know the context of how the child used the word "suck", how do you know the coach used it in the wrong context when providing the definition?

[Pitt Gorilla]

What am I not supposed to believe? I believe that the coach said something stupid (and likely isn't a very good coach) and I believe that you felt the need to write a poorly constructed letter. Did I miss something?

[beach tribe]

Hmmm. My only comment is that I think you may be handling this a little too nicely, Mr. foxman.

This was a very strange, inappropriate, and troubling statement by the coach. Personally, I think he should be fired. Where there's smoke, there's fire ... and, sometimes, a smoldering gay man on the prowl.

FAX

:LOL:

[Skip Towne]

The coach is discussing inappropriate concepts with 9-12 year olds. He should be reprimanded.

On the other hand, my son is a week from 13 and if I hear him say that anything "sucks," he'll be sorry.

You suck!

[Valiant]

Yeah, I didnt set that part up. Of the 12 kids 8 are probably over weight and the other 4 are about right. A couple of the big guys made a comment about being small and the coach started talking about the guys needed to loose weight so they could run faster and not get thrown out at first and then started guessing their weight.

Another discussion especially for the old self esteem.

I guess I can see that as an issue for some.. But maybe somebody needs to tell these kids to start exercising more.. Negative reinforcement is as good as positive reinforcement in some instances..

I tell myself I am fat all the time so I go run more.. To me it is a non issue, but I am not the kids parent deciding here..

[foxman]

If you don't know the context of how the child used the word "suck", how do you know the coach used it in the wrong context when providing the definition?

Help me understand how the context of the word suck could have been used by the boy that would make it OK the tell 9-12 year olds that the word suck means putting someones privates in their mouth.

[Extra Point]

foxman, good luck running this team. I just wonder why they have 9-12 year olds on the same team. 12 year olds are mostly light years away from 9 year olds, developmentally.

Anyway, that coach needs to go. And your letter sealed the death warrant.

[foxman]

foxman, good luck running this team. I just wonder why they have 9-12 year olds on the same team. 12 year olds are mostly light years away from 9 year olds, developmentally.

Anyway, that coach needs to go. And your letter sealed the death warrant.

I have no idea why this league chooses to use 9-12. The other league we are involved in separates the 9 & 10 year olds from the 11 & 12 year olds. Thats the primary reason why my 10 year old didn't play in this league and now I am thrilled with that decision.

I thought about them removing the coach and they might. If they do I am sure we can work out the details on another coach.

I do appreciate most of the feed back and to the person that suggested talking to him privately. I agree, and I do feel bad for not addressing it, but it has gotten much more attention now and my letter was just one of them that is going to the board.

[Chiefnj2]

Help me understand how the context of the word suck could have been used by the boy that would make it OK the tell 9-12 year olds that the word suck means putting someones privates in their mouth.

You suck dick.

[foxman]

You suck dick.

:rolleyes:

[bogey]

In case you decide to send the letter, here are a few suggestions if you consider this an important document:

1. Be more concise. Paragraph 2 isn't needed, for example.
2. If you keep paragraph 2, the second sentence in this paragraph is a mess.
3. Cannot is one word.
4. Its = possessive, not it's.
5. "However" isn't a conjunction. Almost all examples of ", however" are comma splices. Insert a period or a comma plus a conjunction (and, or, but, yet).

Grammar Sucks

[sedated]

Negative reinforcement is as good as positive reinforcement in some instances..

I tell myself I am fat all the time so I go run more

I tell my girlfriend that she's fat every day, but the b!tch still won't get on a damn treadmill.

[Chiefnj2]

:rolleyes:


- It was inappropriate for him to define suck in the manner in which you said he did to a group of 9-12 year olds.

- If you were really offended by it, you should have said something to him.

- The manner in which you handled it will bring more attention to what he said and generate more discussion about dick sucking between the kids.

- I think you are using his comments as an excuse to get him fired because you don't like him as a coach in general. Your comments about his demeanor, not making kids run laps, playing them out of position (in your opinion), etc. None of that is applicable to the issue at hand.

[Chief Henry]

That coach is a douche bag. Get agressive with those boys and teach them to slide
and bunt and hit the ball when the hit and run is on.

[Baby Lee]

It could mean suck eggs? As far as language man it's baseball. I remember when I wa sthat age trying tabacoo stealing porno mags and cussing it up.

Yeah, I think 'sucking' as a term of not being good has moved past oral copulation alone [though there is still an element of it in there], sucking eggs, sucking wind, sucking the air out of the room, basically 'your performance is a drag on the system' is how people generally look at it.

[foxman]

[QUOTE=Chiefnj2;4753965]- It was inappropriate for him to define suck in the manner in which you said he did to a group of 9-12 year olds.
Clearly

- If you were really offended by it, you should have said something to him.
Wished I had. I can't explain why I didnt other than I was shocked. Since then though a couple parents found out from their child...it is taking on a life of it's own.

- The manner in which you handled it will bring more attention to what he said and generate more discussion about dick sucking between the kids.

Maybe by not addressing it immediately, but even still once it was said, it was said.

- I think you are using his comments as an excuse to get him fired because you don't like him as a coach in general. Your comments about his demeanor, not making kids run laps, playing them out of position (in your opinion), etc. None of that is applicable to the issue at hand.

Actually, I don't like his coaching style, but if he had not said what he had I would not be dealing with this. You keep pointing it back to me, he is the one would said what he did. considering he played in college he probably knows more about the technical aspects of baseball than I do probably but coaching is not his strength IMO.

[B_Ambuehl]

IMO This is a perfect example of how todays society has turned into a bunch of pussies. Someone says one thing semi questionable and you got a bunch of parents sitting around on their computers writing letters. When I was 11 yrs old my baseball coach used to tell us to get off our ass and play with some intensity and we didn't have parents sitting around waiting to call their lawyer. In today's society none of us would' be expected to make it out of Jr. high due to the emotional damage inflicted upon us...lol

[Stewie]

It could mean suck eggs?

That's what it meant when I was playing sports at that age. It was a derogatory comment to the fatass and out of shape players who ran sprints and were slow and couldn't catch their breath. A lot like sucking the egg out of the shell through a pinhole...

[sedated]

IMO This is a perfect example of how todays society has turned into a bunch of pussies. Someone says one thing semi questionable and you got a bunch of parents sitting around on their computers writing letters. When I was 11 yrs old my baseball coach used to tell us to get off our ass and play with some intensity and we didn't have parents sitting around waiting to call their lawyer. In today's society none of us would' be expected to make it out of Jr. high due to the emotional damage inflicted upon us...lol

Our coach used to bean us with fastballs, and make us run the bases in a dress if we didn't lean into it.

[LiL stumppy]

On the other hand, my son is a week from 13 and if I hear him say that anything "sucks," he'll be sorry.

Sorry, but IMO that is a little harsh. I remember those days and the word "sucks" isn't a big deal. Forgive me, I'm not trying to start anything, but it isn't that horrible of a word. Maybe it's just me, but the word "suck" wasn't anything compared to anything that came out my friends or my mouth in 6th grade.

[Ultra Peanut]

That coach is a douche bag. Get agressive with those boys and teach them to slide
and bunt and hit the ball when the hit and run is on.Shut the **** up, Ozzie.

[Adept Havelock]

I bet several of those kids already knew what it meant, but that doesnt mean the coach should be repeating it.

Sexual innuendo has no place in youth athletics.

Nuthooks for coach.

I agree with scott free entirely. A well worded letter, foxman.

[bogey]

The word "sucks" is getting a bad rap here. My wife makes a pretty good living with that word.

[BigRock]

So, one of the children on the team which is made up of 9-12 year olds says "man we suck"
Apparently, one of our children on the team mentioned the word “suck” and associated it with one of the coaches. I was not present when the child made this statement, so I can not comment on the context of it's use or it's intended target

I'm confused. In the first post you seemed to know exactly how the word "suck" was used. But in the letter you specifically state that you don't know. And a kid saying "man we suck" would be a harmless reference to the team not playing well, while in the letter you said "suck" was associated with one of the coaches. In other words, probably an insult about that coach.

Do you really know that the kid just said "man we suck"? If so, why not put that in the letter? You should want to make it abundantly clear that the kid didn't say "suck" in any kind of sexual context that would warrant that type of graphic statement from the coach. Instead, the letter makes it seem like the kids may have been insulting one of their coaches.

Honestly, this kinda gives me the impression that maybe the kids were saying "suck" in a dirtier context than you're letting on.

[mikeyis4dcats.]

personally I think you are overreacting.

but at any rate, I failt to see what your job title and place of employment have to do with this matter, and you have no right bringing your employer into this ordeal in ANY shape or fashion, intended or otherwise.

[RJ]

I think youth sports are great. They'd be even better without the coaches and parents.

On a side note, I do think the word "sucks" is used way too liberally these days. People use it like a common adjective rather than the slur that it really is. I think most folks just don't realize what they're really saying.

[TinyEvel]

WHAT WE HAVE HEERE....IS A FAILYOOOOORE TO COMMUNICATE!!!!!!!

teh Coach is Teh sux.

And out of a job. THo, I heard the Carl is scouting him for special teams.

[Phobia]

I don't have a problem with the kid using the word. It's a whole lot tamer than 100 other choices he could have used.

The coach was an idiot for choosing the slang definition. That was out of control.

If you have 8 fat kids on your team and it's affecting their ability to get on base, I think Coach is well within his rights to tell them to lose some weight. Drop the nintendo controller and Drumstick and get some exercise fatty. If Mom & Dad won't make it happen and Coach isn't allowed, who is gonna put fat kids in their place?

[Rain Man]

I don't have kids, and it seems obvious that the coach made a poor choice, but I honestly think I would've just said to the coach, "Dude, that shouldn't have been said. Don't go there", and moved on. If he's not inappropriate in other ways, I guess I don't see it as being grounds to get the guy into trouble on a formal basis after he's volunteering his time.

[JBucc]

Is this your coach?
http://i30.tinypic.com/2yoydj6.gif

[Marcellus]

This thread sucks. Good lord.

[Hammock Parties]

Sounds like a bunch of over-Christianized crybaby parents.

[Easy 6]

Sounds like a bunch of over-Christianized crybaby parents.

A youth league coach doesnt need to be explaining the finer/sexual points of what "sucks" means to 9-12 year olds. Even if some of them already knew that meaning, a leader of youngsters shouldnt be repeating it

I BET that if any of those here saying "oh, this is PC BS" had DAUGHTERS that were exposed to these kinds of explanations from a coach...it'd be an entirely different reaction.

But, since they're boys its ok :rolleyes:.

[Friendo]

I think youth sports are great. They'd be even better without the coaches and parents.

On a side note, I do think the word "sucks" is used way too liberally these days. People use it like a common adjective rather than the slur that it really is. I think most folks just don't realize what they're really saying.

http://www.giveusbackourgame.co.uk/index.php

[Hammock Parties]

A youth league coach doesnt need to be explaining the finer/sexual points of what "sucks" means to 9-12 year olds. Even if some of them already knew that meaning, a leader of youngsters shouldnt be repeating it



Who gives a shit? Stop sheltering your children.

[Easy 6]

Who gives a shit? Stop sheltering your children.

Come back & discuss this with me when you have children.

[BigRedChief]

A youth league coach doesnt need to be explaining the finer/sexual points of what "sucks" means to 9-12 year olds. Even if some of them already knew that meaning, a leader of youngsters shouldnt be repeating it

I BET that if any of those here saying "oh, this is PC BS" had DAUGHTERS that were exposed to these kinds of explanations from a coach...it'd be an entirely different reaction.

But, since they're boys its ok :rolleyes:.
I coached competitve and recreational little league baseball for 8 years. Because we did so well last fall my team is currently the 2nd ranked team in the state of missouri and we aren't even playing competitive baseball this summer. My son is playing rec ball this summer.

I've dealt with know it all parents, meddling parents who think their son is the next Pujols and parents who like the team/parents and kids if only I was gone. I've witnessed parents get into a pushing match at 8 year olds games, confront umpires in the parking lots after a tee ball game. Etc. Etc.

Writing letters to league rep was so over the top wrong I hope that you can see that soon. Yeah, it was a bad choice and a horrible analogy but chit happens and no one is perfect.

I've had baseball teams spend the night at my house. Go swimming together. I made sure I'm no where near them when they are getting dressed and I never, ever talk anything but PC stuff with them.

I'm fully aware of what I say around them and how I act. I've had many kids cuss, say that sucks and call something gay. I usually let it slide unless they do it again and it was in the heat of the game.

Yes, being a little league baseball coach is a position of responsibility but it ain't rocket science or the preisthood either. We are usually just Dad's helping out so the kids can have a good time.

Having fun is what its all about. But this parts pretty cool also....
http://www.eteamz.com/lscardinals/images/2ndPlaceMonsterMash2007.jpg
http://www.chiefsplanet.com/BB/attachment.php?attachmentid=78166&stc=1&d=1210174712

[LiL stumppy]

Come back & discuss this with me when you have children.

He can't do that until some procedure is invented where men can be impregnated. It might be a while.

[HMc]

Come back & discuss this with me when you have children.

Yeah, because there's so much evidence that suggests "having children" = "being a capable and rational parent" :rolleyes:

For once i agree with gochiefs. Is it appropriate? Not really, but holy shit instead of getting into an outrage on the internet about it and sending (bloody poorly written) letter to whomever is in charge, pick up your nuts and go and have a quick word to the coach.

Something like "Hey Mike, i couldn't help but hear blah blah blah, and i, along with some other parents, believe that to be innapropriate."

More than likely he says "yeah fair enough, it was probably a mistake."

If he completely disagrees with you and wants to continue, then pursue it through another avenue.

Seriously though, your child wont have a nervous breakdown cos their baseball coach casually referenced a blow job.

[ClevelandBronco]

Sorry, but IMO that is a little harsh. I remember those days and the word "sucks" isn't a big deal. Forgive me, I'm not trying to start anything, but it isn't that horrible of a word. Maybe it's just me, but the word "suck" wasn't anything compared to anything that came out my friends or my mouth in 6th grade.

Oh, I said much worse, but I had the good sense to be sure that no adult could hear me say it.

Whatever the case was with me, my kid would be in trouble. Lessons about respect must be taught even if the teachings aren't necessarily practiced by the pupil.

And so it goes from generation to generation.

[DeezNutz]

Obviously you want little kids to talk appropriately and respectfully, but if one is overly strict about enforcing it, don't you think that this might result in the kids overcompensating when you're not around?

[Easy 6]

I coached competitve and recreational little league baseball for 8 years. Because we did so well last fall my team is currently the 2nd ranked team in the state of missouri and we aren't even playing competitive baseball this summer. My son is playing rec ball this summer.

I've dealt with know it all parents, meddling parents who think their son is the next Pujols and parents who like the team/parents and kids if only I was gone. I've witnessed parents get into a pushing match at 8 year olds games, confront umpires in the parking lots after a tee ball game. Etc. Etc.

Writing letters to league rep was so over the top wrong I hope that you can see that soon. Yeah, it was a bad choice and a horrible analogy but chit happens and no one is perfect.

I've had baseball teams spend the night at my house. Go swimming together. I made sure I'm no where near them when they are getting dressed and I never, ever talk anything but PC stuff with them.

I'm fully aware of what I say around them and how I act. I've had many kids cuss, say that sucks and call something gay. I usually let it slide unless they do it again and it was in the heat of the game.

Yes, being a little league baseball coach is a position of responsibility but it ain't rocket science or the preisthood either. We are usually just Dad's helping out so the kids can have a good time.

Having fun is what its all about. But this parts pretty cool also....
http://www.eteamz.com/lscardinals/images/2ndPlaceMonsterMash2007.jpg
http://www.chiefsplanet.com/BB/attachment.php?attachmentid=78166&stc=1&d=1210174712

BD, i agree with a lot of this...from what foxman said, the coach is normally a standup guy...so a letter to the league could well be over the top, like you say, everyone makes mistakes. It'd be a shame to tarnish a good guys name over a single mistake. I'd keep my ears open for more of the same from him though.

I also agree that theres NOTHING worse than loudmouth parents at ball games, its embarrassing for everyone, especially their own kids. I personally wouldnt tolerate it were i ever in a position to intervene.

[DeezNutz]

On the other hand, my son is a week from 13 and if I hear him say that anything "sucks," he'll be sorry.

Aren't you a Bronco fan? How could this word not be a major part of his lexicon? Product of his environment and such...

[ClevelandBronco]

Aren't you a Bronco fan? How could this word not be a major part of his lexicon? Product of his environment and such...

I've tried to explain to him that the Chiefs are "special," and a blessing to the rest of the league.

[Easy 6]

Yeah, because there's so much evidence that suggests "having children" = "being a capable and rational parent" :rolleyes:

For once i agree with gochiefs. Is it appropriate? Not really, but holy shit instead of getting into an outrage on the internet about it and sending (bloody poorly written) letter to whomever is in charge, pick up your nuts and go and have a quick word to the coach.

Something like "Hey Mike, i couldn't help but hear blah blah blah, and i, along with some other parents, believe that to be innapropriate."

More than likely he says "yeah fair enough, it was probably a mistake."

If he completely disagrees with you and wants to continue, then pursue it through another avenue.

Seriously though, your child wont have a nervous breakdown cos their baseball coach casually referenced a blow job.

After a bit of thought, i agree with much of this as well.

Your right, being a sperm donor doesnt give one a doctorate in child raising...but i, personally, wont be lectured about child raising by someone who doesnt have any.

[boogblaster]

Bless this n[]nn ...

[DeezNutz]

I'm confused by some of the reactions to this situation. I agree that the letter is not the best choice, but I would be pissed if someone started talking about blowjobs to any nine-year-old, especially if it were my own kid. Thankfully, I had no clue about any of this when I was 9-12 (Blowjobs, that is. It would have been difficult for me to have predicted this thread). Of course this was pre-Internet, but I think we should try to protect innocence when possible.

I'm not so naive to think that all of the 12-year-olds on the team are innocent, however. It's troubling to know the stuff some of my small-town friends were doing at this age.

[ClevelandBronco]

After a bit of thought, i agree with much of this as well.

Your right, being a sperm donor doesnt give one a doctorate in child raising...but i, personally, wont be lectured about child raising by someone who doesnt have any.

If we were talking about 14-17 year olds, I'd be right with you guys.

9 year olds? Nope. No way.

[Easy 6]

If we were talking about 14-17 year olds, I'd be right with you guys.

9 year olds? Nope. No way.

I agreed with Hmc to a point, the point at which he said..."its not gonna kill your kid to hear coach referencing a BJ"...it wont kill'em, but its highly inappropriate to say the least at age 9.

But from whats been written, the coach is an otherwise good guy...i'm now not so sure that going balls out on him is the best thing.

[DeezNutz]

Seriously though, your child wont have a nervous breakdown cos their baseball coach casually referenced a blow job.

Nope, but it will generate a lot of questions that parents shouldn't have to deal with from kids this age.

[LiL stumppy]

Nope, but it will generate a lot of questions that parents shouldn't have to deal with from kids this age.

Trust me, a kid that age will know what it mean and what it can be related to. The only thing it will do is generate some giggles with some of his buds about it at school.

[HMc]

Nope, but it will generate a lot of questions that parents shouldn't have to deal with from kids this age.

Oh bullshit, we're talking about kids 9-12, not 4-6.

As for parents not having to deal with the topic, well boo hoo for them. If you have fricken kids then shit happens, and frankly i think if a baseball coach making ONE innapropriate remark (and let's remember the kids are using language that'd make a sailor blush when adults ARENT around) is that big of a deal, then you're f*cking lucky and you really need to find ways to keep yourself busy.

[Lbedrock1]

Mr. Davis,



I am writing you this regrettably to let you know how concerned and uncomfortable I am with our team’s head coach, Mike XXXXX. I have been helping with some of the drills off and on all season when I am at practice and it just so happened that on the Wednesday May 14th Coach XXXXX addressed the team about a variety of issues that we have been having. Apparently, one of our children on the team mentioned the word “suck” and associated it with one of the coaches. I was not present when the child made this statement, so I can not comment on the context of it's use or it's intended target, however it is not uncommon for individuals on a struggling team to feel like they are not good and use the phrase I, you or they suck and in that context I take that to mean that, that particular team, player, situation or whatever isn’t doing very good. Personally, I don't use the term and don't like the term and have instructed teams I have coached in the past that, that term is not acceptable. Unfortunately, Coach XXXXX opted to ask if anyone on the team knew its definition and then proceeded to explain that the word suck meant one person having their private parts in another person’s mouth. Yes, I did hear this with my own ears.



My understanding of this league is that it is for ages 9 through 12. I have a 12 year old in the 6th grade who has had 2 or 3 courses of "Sex ed" while in school in addition to me having the "Talk" with him and I was uncomfortable for him. Had my 10 year old opted to play for HPLL and end up with Coach XXXXX, he would have heard this for the first time. I have a real issue with what was said and I have considered removing my child from this team for this as well as another conversation that was regarding the weight of players on the team, but I really didn’t want to penalize the team or my son.



In my opinion coach XXXXX has now crossed the line twice with this team and should you consider allowing him to continue coaching 9-12 year olds, I would suggest placing limitations on him with regards to complaints like a probationary period or maybe you would consider placing a board approved assistant who would assist in coaching and monitor Coach XXXXX as well.



My oldest son is 12 as I mentioned and I realize according to the HPLL structure he wouldn’t be eligible to play on this team next year, however, I do have a 10 year old who will be eligible. If he should decide to try out for a team next year, I will not let him play on a team coached by Mike XXXXX.



I want to make very clear that I think that Mike XXXXX is a very nice person and his knowledge of baseball is not in question here, he has simply made some very poor decisions in terms of coaching these boys, but most importantly and the reason for this letter he has made some severe lapses in judgment on communicating to these boys in a way that is uplifting and acceptable for their emotional well being. The weight conversation and the sexual suggestion of the word "suck" are simply not acceptable to me.



This has nothing to do with wins and losses; it is simply too far over the line to ignore.





Thanks for your consideration in this matter,




Foxman
XXXXXX Chevrolet
Fleet & Commercial Specialist
336.442.XXXX

I think you are taking it a little to far. I got detention in school for saying "this sucks" for that very reason. It does mean that and if you couldn't tell him then to his face then you have the problem.

[DeezNutz]

Oh bullshit, we're talking about kids 9-12, not 4-6.


What!?! BJ's are known commodities to 9-year-olds? No way. 12 maybe. What's off limits for 9-12, then? ATM?

I'm not saying the guy should be killed for his comment, but, as an adult, you can't take these kinds of liberties with someone else's kids. Yeah they're friends will talk and things happen this way, but having an adult do it is another matter entirely.

[Mr. Flopnuts]

I think the letter is a little over the top. I'm not saying that you're going too far or anything like that. I just think the letter sounds almost condescending to the receipient. I'd make it a lot more simple and show a little more outrage. JMO.

[RJ]

Maybe this was covered and I missed it, but - does coach have a kid on the team?

[DeezNutz]

Trust me, a kid that age will know what it mean and what it can be related to. The only thing it will do is generate some giggles with some of his buds about it at school.

If all nine-year-olds are walking around school yucking it up about BJ's and such, that's a pretty sad statement. This didn't happen when I was this age. Yes, it wasn't uncommon, throughout elementary school, for conversations to sound like they always took place in a locker room, but no hardcore sex stuff.

What a contradiction, too. We live in this overly PC world, but kids are ready to go ATM by age 12. Yeah, shit, what's the big deal? They're 12...

[HMc]

What!?! BJ's are known commodities to 9-year-olds? No way. 12 maybe. What's off limits for 9-12, then? ATM?

I'm not saying the guy should be killed for his comment, but, as an adult, you can't take these kinds of liberties with someone else's kids. Yeah they're friends will talk and things happen this way, but having an adult do it is another matter entirely.

What im saying is that a 9 year old is going to hear dick-in-mouth and say eeeeeeeewwww gross giggle giggle laugh.......

then forget about it. If the kid is having wet dreams about the coach plunging his member down his throat then the kid has much bigger problems.

ftr, i agree its not cool, but the solution is a 2 min chat with the coach. easy.

[DeezNutz]

What im saying is that a 9 year old is going to hear dick-in-mouth and say eeeeeeeewwww gross giggle giggle laugh.......

then forget about it. If the kid is having wet dreams about the coach plunging his member down his throat then the kid has much bigger problems.

ftr, i agree its not cool, but the solution is a 2 min chat with the coach. easy.

I agree about the solution. Confront the coach, problem likely solved.

We're going to have to disagree about the kids' reaction. Yeah, there's going to be the "yuck, gross" stuff, but don't you think that leads to a type of "where do babies come from" question for mom and dad? "Why would anyone stick private in someone's mouth, mommy?" Who needs this from a nine-year-old? I would expect this from a middle schooler, but maybe kids are just starting earlier now.

[BWillie]

who cares, they are going to learn what it means eventually. why is everybody so intent to censor everything from their children. coach sounds like a nimwit anyway you look at it though. when i say you suck, the last thing i'm thinking about is privates in someone's mouth

[Skip Towne]

I agreed with Hmc to a point, the point at which he said..."its not gonna kill your kid to hear coach referencing a BJ"...it wont kill'em, but its highly inappropriate to say the least at age 9.

But from whats been written, the coach is an otherwise good guy...i'm now not so sure that going balls out on him is the best thing.

I'm not sure it would damage him if they did go balls out on him. If I read it right, he is a family physician and those guys are not easily damaged. It might, in fact, all come back on the accusers.

[LiL stumppy]

If all nine-year-olds are walking around school yucking it up about BJ's and such, that's a pretty sad statement. This didn't happen when I was this age. Yes, it wasn't uncommon, throughout elementary school, for conversations to sound like they always took place in a locker room, but no hardcore sex stuff.

What a contradiction, too. We live in this overly PC world, but kids are ready to go ATM by age 12. Yeah, shit, what's the big deal? They're 12...


JW, do you know how many kids on the team were actually 9 or 10 years old even? Because I know for a fact that most past that point knows what a blow job is. Weather they call it that or not.

[irishjayhawk]

<cite>American Heritage Dictionary</cite> (http://dictionary.reference.com/help/ahd4.html) - Cite This Source (http://dictionary.reference.com/cite.html?qh=suck&ia=ahd4)<!-- google_ad_section_start(name=def) --> suck<script type="text/javascript"> // <![CDATA[ var interfaceflash = new LEXICOFlashObject ( "http://cache.lexico.com/d/g/speaker.swf", "speaker", "17", "18", "<img src=\"http://cache.lexico.com/g/d/speaker.gif\" border=\"0\" /> (http://www.chiefsplanet.com/BB/\&quot;http://dictionary.reference.com/audio.html/ahd4WAV/S0860900/suck\&quot;)", "6"); interfaceflash.addParam("loop", "false"); interfaceflash.addParam("quality", "high"); interfaceflash.addParam("menu", "false"); interfaceflash.addParam("salign", "t"); interfaceflash.addParam("FlashVars", "soundUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fcache.lexico.com%2Fdictionary%2Faudio%2Fahd4%2FS%2FS0860900.mp3"); interfaceflash.write(); // ]]> </script><noscript>http://cache.lexico.com/g/d/speaker.gif (http://dictionary.reference.com/audio.html/ahd4WAV/S0860900/suck)</noscript> Audio Help (http://dictionary.reference.com/help/audio.html) (sŭk) Pronunciation Key (http://cache.lexico.com/help/ahd4/pronkey.html)
<!--BOF_HEAD--><!--EOF_HEAD--><!--BOF_SUBHEAD--> v. sucked, suck·ing, sucks
<!--EOF_SUBHEAD--><!--BOF_DEF--><!--EOF_DEF-->
<!--BOF_HEAD--><!--EOF_HEAD--><!--BOF_SUBHEAD--> v. tr.
<!--EOF_SUBHEAD--> <!--BOF_DEF-->
To draw (liquid) into the mouth by movements of the tongue and lips that create suction.

To draw in by establishing a partial vacuum: a cleaning device that sucks up dirt.
To draw in by or as if by a current in a fluid.
To draw or pull as if by suction: teenagers who are sucked into a life of crime.
To draw nourishment through or from: suck a baby bottle.
To hold, moisten, or maneuver (a sweet, for example) in the mouth.
Vulgar Slang To perform fellatio on.<!--EOF_DEF--><!--BOF_HEAD--><!--EOF_HEAD--><!--BOF_SUBHEAD--> v. intr.
<!--EOF_SUBHEAD--> <!--BOF_DEF-->
To draw something in by or as if by suction: felt the drain starting to suck.
To draw nourishment; suckle.
To make a sound caused by suction.
Vulgar Slang To be disgustingly disagreeable or offensive.<!--EOF_DEF--><!--BOF_HEAD--><!--EOF_HEAD--> n. <!--BOF_DEF-->
The act or sound of sucking.
Suction.
Something drawn in by sucking.Hmmmm I think this coach was fantasizing about "sucking" young boys and not paying attention in class when this term came up.

First thing that came to my mind is that is not the definition of suck. It isn't even in the top probably 10.

But, given the responses, it seems like I'm mistaken.

[irishjayhawk]

who cares, they are going to learn what it means eventually. why is everybody so intent to censor everything from their children. coach sounds like a nimwit anyway you look at it though. when i say you suck, the last thing i'm thinking about is privates in someone's mouth

I've always wondered this. There is a line, but we move the line closer and closer (stricter and stricter) each year.

[Easy 6]

I'm not sure it would damage him if they did go balls out on him. If I read it right, he is a family physician and those guys are not easily damaged. It might, in fact, all come back on the accusers.

So true...money talks.

[RJ]

First thing that came to my mind is that is not the definition of suck. It isn't even in the top probably 10.

But, given the responses, it seems like I'm mistaken.



Way back in the day......I mean a long time ago, the 60's and 70's......when people said "you suck" it was a really bad thing. It meant "you put penises in your mouth". Over the years the definition changed, to the point that it came to have every day usage simply meaning something was bad. So it is the definition in the context the child was using it.

[irishjayhawk]

Way back in the day......I mean a long time ago, the 60's and 70's......when people said "you suck" it was a really bad thing. It meant "you put penises in your mouth". Over the years the definition changed, to the point that it came to have every day usage simply meaning something was bad. So it is the definition in the context the child was using it.

And hence why any adult with kids should be aware of these trend changes.... That's why he looks like a moron.

[ClevelandBronco]

I've always wondered this. There is a line, but we move the line closer and closer (stricter and stricter) each year.

Were you raised by actual human parents?

[irishjayhawk]

Were you raised by actual human parents?

Nope. Aliens.

[RJ]

And hence why any adult with kids should be aware of these trend changes.... That's why he looks like a moron.


Maybe. But when I was that age if I told my baseball coach something "sucked" I'd have had problems both on the team and at home. Now it's just a word.

[ClevelandBronco]

From?

[ClevelandBronco]

Maybe. But when I was that age if I told my baseball coach something "sucked" I'd have had problems both on the team and at home. Now it's just a word.

Yeah, but according to irish the world is getting stricter.

One of you guys is probably not very well informed.

[ClevelandBronco]

Nope. Aliens.

I'm taking a wild guess, and I apologize profusely if I'm wrong.

You were not raised by your biological parents in an intact home.

Again, I apologize if I'm incorrect in my assumption.

[Easy 6]

Maybe. But when I was that age if I told my baseball coach something "sucked" I'd have had problems both on the team and at home. Now it's just a word.

Exactly.

But more than likely, were all just a bunch prudes :rolleyes:.

[HMc]

I agree about the solution. Confront the coach, problem likely solved.

We're going to have to disagree about the kids' reaction. Yeah, there's going to be the "yuck, gross" stuff, but don't you think that leads to a type of "where do babies come from" question for mom and dad? "Why would anyone stick private in someone's mouth, mommy?" Who needs this from a nine-year-old? I would expect this from a middle schooler, but maybe kids are just starting earlier now.

You were probably raised significantly more conservatively than i.

[irishjayhawk]

I'm taking a wild guess, and I apologize profusely if I'm wrong.

You were not raised by your biological parents in an intact home.

Again, I apologize if I'm incorrect in my assumption.

Nope. In tact.

[ClevelandBronco]

I apologize.

[ClevelandBronco]

It doesn't surprise me when a young man, such as the one in the original post, hasn't been taught to know that there are proper levels of respect and decorum that he should be expected to recognize. Unfortunately, some young men have been raised by weak or absent fathers.

[Mile High Mania]

That's a dumb explanation on his part.. and a topic he shouldn't bring up with that age group. The guy should be reprimanded and asked to apologize to the kids and parents.

[Mile High Mania]

Exactly.

But more than likely, were all just a bunch prudes :rolleyes:.

I'm not a prude, but I don't want my kids walking around talking like I did at times when I was younger... "this sucks" ... "screw that" ... all sorts of slang words are funny and I do my very best to watch what I say now. But, I don't want my kids getting started with the foul mouths...

And, to an earlier post - there are a lot of parents that put up with a lot of stuff with their kids that drives me insane. Our neighbors have a 5 yr old daughter and she plays with our daughter... let's just say there pretty lax in the way they let their daughter talk to them. Our daughter thought it would fly once around here... once. :evil:

[Easy 6]

I'm not a prude, but I don't want my kids walking around talking like I did at times when I was younger... "this sucks" ... "screw that" ... all sorts of slang words are funny and I do my very best to watch what I say now. But, I don't want my kids getting started with the foul mouths...

And, to an earlier post - there are a lot of parents that put up with a lot of stuff with their kids that drives me insane. Our neighbors have a 5 yr old daughter and she plays with our daughter... let's just say there pretty lax in the way they let their daughter talk to them. Our daughter thought it would fly once around here... once. :evil:

I agree with RJ 100%, i was only rolling my eyes at jayhawks take.

[Fairplay]

You're kids hear much worse then that through their life.

My god, you'd think its going to effect their whole childhood or something.

You can't protect them from how the world is.

If you raise them right they should learn how much to put into bad words or similar to.

I was raised where we couldn't cuss in the house or anything. We'd hear nieghborkids say bad words or even grown ups. I didn't have problems with it, i just let it roll off my shoulder and go on.

[58-4ever]

It's a known fact that 50% of all coaches are ghey.

and 63 percent of all statistics are made up.

[RNR]

I coached for several years mainly football only a couple years of baseball. IMO this coach was out of line.
Do these kids hear worse yes, do a lot of them speak worse when not around their parents yes. That said a coach should consider himself a role model and be a positive one.
They should be teaching fundamentals at that age and more important values such as hard work, team work and sportsmanship. Most of these kids will play sports for a very short time, the values learned through sports can help them for a lifetime.

[blueballs]

sucks only has sexual meaning
when preceded by JETS

[DaKCMan AP]

If it was really bothersome you should have acted on the spot. Don't give any bullshit excuse about being shocked. Then, after being incapable of handling the situation when it arose you decide to go behind the guys back and write a letter? Man up and discuss it face-to-face with the guy FIRST. If you're not satisfied with the outcome THEN you go write your letter.

Overreacting and handling it the wrong way, IMO.

[TEX]

Why would I "NOT" believe this? Much to do about nothing IMO. If you had a problem with it, you should have addresed it on the spot. Just my take...

[DaKCMan AP]

I'm not a prude, but I don't want my kids walking around talking like I did at times when I was younger... "this sucks" ... "screw that" ... all sorts of slang words are funny and I do my very best to watch what I say now. But, I don't want my kids getting started with the foul mouths...

Do as I say but not as I do/did.. :rolleyes:

[RNR]

If it was really bothersome you should have acted on the spot. Don't give any bullshit excuse about being shocked. Then, after being incapable of handling the situation when it arose you decide to go behind the guys back and write a letter? Man up and discuss it face-to-face with the guy FIRST. If you're not satisfied with the outcome THEN you go write your letter.

Overreacting and handling it the wrong way, IMO.

I did not address this in my post but agree. I would have handled it different. I am not the type to hold back and would have pulled him off to the side and had a face to face talk. I guess people handle things in different ways.

[PastorMikH]

I haven't read all the posts and really don't plan too so this may be covered already. Personally, before I went around talking to other parents and the board, I would speak to him about the issue at hand. The guy is donating his time to try to work with these boys, maybe he's doing a bad job, but he's still doing better than the parents that won't try to work with their kids. I'd try to at least show him enough respect to go to him first with my concerns.

[PastorMikH]

I did not address this in my post but agree. I would have handled it different. I am not the type to hold back and would have pulled him off to the side, pulled a tire iron out of my truck and beat the ever-livin' crap out of him. I guess people handle things in different ways, but I'm a Raider fan and that's my style.



Fixed your post for you.

[RNR]

Fixed your post for you.

Thats just ugly and hurtful LMAO

[irishjayhawk]

I'm not a prude, but I don't want my kids walking around talking like I did at times when I was younger... "this sucks" ... "screw that" ... all sorts of slang words are funny and I do my very best to watch what I say now. But, I don't want my kids getting started with the foul mouths...

And, to an earlier post - there are a lot of parents that put up with a lot of stuff with their kids that drives me insane. Our neighbors have a 5 yr old daughter and she plays with our daughter... let's just say there pretty lax in the way they let their daughter talk to them. Our daughter thought it would fly once around here... once. :evil:

Nice Avatar. I never see you in the LOST thread...

[Mile High Mania]

Do as I say but not as I do/did.. :rolleyes:

These threads bring out all types... bottom line is that parents should do their best to make sure that their kid isn't "that kid". The kid that other people view as the trouble maker... the one that doesn't respect others ... the one that has the bad mouth.

My kids aren't in a bubble by any means and yeah, they're going to see and hear all sorts of things eventually. Some of you sound as if they might as well be introduced to porn and booze by 2nd grade... hell, they'll run into it eventually.

[DaKCMan AP]

These threads bring out all types... bottom line is that parents should do their best to make sure that their kid isn't "that kid". The kid that other people view as the trouble maker... the one that doesn't respect others ... the one that has the bad mouth.

My kids aren't in a bubble by any means and yeah, they're going to see and hear all sorts of things eventually. Some of you sound as if they might as well be introduced to porn and booze by 2nd grade... hell, they'll run into it eventually.

I'm not suggesting kids are exposed to everything in the world by the age of 10. However, I find it somewhat hypocritical to be mad at your kids for doing the same things you did. Setting a higher standard and wanting your children to do and be better than you is great, but it's a different situation for a parent to come down on a child for the same mistakes/habits/behaviors exhibited by him or her.

[Mile High Mania]

I'm not suggesting kids are exposed to everything in the world by the age of 10. However, I find it somewhat hypocritical to be mad at your kids for doing the same things you did. Setting a higher standard and wanting your children to do and be better than you is great, but it's a different situation for a parent to come down on a child for the same mistakes/habits/behaviors exhibited by him or her.

Right, and that's why I suggested that I do my best to not say things or do things that I fear them repeating... If I say "Oh hell, damn crappy bastards" and they repeat it... I can't very well be mad at them. So, I don't say those things... I know that I was very colorful with my language when I was younger, not around my parents... but around other kids. I know my kids will do the same at some point. I can only do my best to help them avoid it for as long as I can.

[DaKCMan AP]

Right, and that's why I suggested that I do my best to not say things or do things that I fear them repeating... If I say "Oh hell, damn crappy bastards" and they repeat it... I can't very well be mad at them. So, I don't say those things... I know that I was very colorful with my language when I was younger, not around my parents... but around other kids. I know my kids will do the same at some point. I can only do my best to help them avoid it for as long as I can.

Understood.

[Rausch]

Do as I say but not as I do/did.. :rolleyes:

So I should be a $#itty parent 'cause I was a $#itty kid to avoid being a hypocrite?...

[RJ]

I asked this before but haven't seen an answer from Foxman - Does the coach have a kid on the team?

[Rausch]

I asked this before but haven't seen an answer from Foxman - Does the coach have a kid on the team?

The league itself might have something to say about the comments as well. Is it a Y league or Lion's Club or something?

[CoMoChief]

Obviously you aren't man enough to talk to him about it face to face so you go behind the guys back to the league.

As the asst coach or what not you should have mentioned it to other parents then if it was an issue talk to the coach about it yourself.

[B_Ambuehl]

And just to think this is a football forum. :)

[munkey]

this thread is the ghey..

[munkey]

So, my oldest son's baseball coach who is a family physician has a team meeting to discuss some behavior and respect issues. Let me frame this a bit. This guys is a very passive, technical guy who has never raised his voice once and never shown any type of discipline like making the team run or anything like that. He has chosen to lecture.....snooze fest.

So, we have 12 reasonably good kids who would make a good football team but not the best baseball team. Add to that the fact that it is my opinion that we have a few guys in the wrong positions and you have the recipe for a disastrous season....and we are 2 and whatever on the season. So, one of the children on the team which is made up of 9-12 year olds says "man we suck"

The coach calls a meeting on the edge of the outfield at practice to lecture and during his lecture he asks "Does anybody know the definition of the word suck?" So, inspite of common sense and the few boys raising their hands, he stated that the word suck meant putting someone's privates in your mouth.

I was on the field and present to this conversation since I have helped out when there. Shocked, I said nothing. Since that time I have talked with a couple of parents and have been in touch with the board and they requested a letter in writing so as to not go by word of mouth (no pun intended).

The following post is my response.....thoughts?

Your like 80% of the parents I'd like to punch in the face...MAN UP!!!!

Is the coach paid for his services? Can you do a better job? Do YOU HAVE THE TIME to do it? If not...sack up and be a man about it...writing a letter is about as pussy as it gets..unless your wifes going to sign it i suggest you go chat with him about the definition of "SUCK"...tell him how you really feel...



:shake:

i can't believe i responded to this worthless thread...again....:banghead:

[BigRedChief]

I asked this before but haven't seen an answer from Foxman - Does the coach have a kid on the team?
In my 8 years of coaching little league baseball I've never seen a team where the coach doesn't have a son on the team. It's a given.

[B_Ambuehl]

Glad I'm not the only who thinks this guy needs to grow a pair. I was thinking about getting involved in little league football next year. This thread convinced me otherwise. I'd be much less likely to have any legal run ins if I spend my time out drinking and driving every night.

[DaKCMan AP]

So I should be a $#itty parent 'cause I was a $#itty kid to avoid being a hypocrite?...

No, but if you were a **** up then don't be pissed that your kid is too. Sure, do everything you can to shape your child into a respectable, successful person, but many times the apple doesn't fall far from the tree and if you did something as a young kid then don't be pissed at your kid for doing the same.

[RJ]

In my 8 years of coaching little league baseball I've never seen a team where the coach doesn't have a son on the team. It's a given.



Agreed, but it wasn't mentioned anywhere, or maybe I didn't see it. I do think it's a relevant question, though. I'm curious if the coach's own son was there at the time. I'd bet yes, and that the coach was speaking no different to the rest of the kids than he would to his own son.

On the subject of "sucks", coaching other people's kids often sucks, usually because of the parents. I did it for several years with my son's teams. I met a few really great parents but unfortunately the ones that stand out in my mind are the assholes. What always amazed me was how few would ever offer a simple thank you. Still, I'm glad I did it. The kids were a lot of fun.

[Dylan]

Foxman:

I'm glad to know you did not hesitate to write a letter. Make sure to send it certified. If you did not -- send it again. The important thing is for school officals to respond in a resaonable manner as they would other types of serious misconduct. The coach felt the word "sucks" was inappropriate, he should have involved at least one school administrator when speaking with the team.

Whenever you feel an educator has crossed the line, these perspectives may be different in the minds of school officials. Know your rights. However, student-athletes do not share the same First Amendment rights as regular students unless it concerns the separation of church and state. Student-athletes programs is a voluntary extracurricular activity. The administration can respond by saying, if you don't like the coach then leave.

It's worth mentioning that the coach employed humiliating tactics and in a child protection political hotbed used offensive remarks of a sexual nature. The major concern is when students might not have considered the educator crossing the boundary of acceptable behavior. I'm curious to know how they will respond. There's a good source of information from reputable childrens organizations online. If you remember, please let me know how it turns out. I will read the entire thread. Good Luck.

http://www.ed.gov/about/contacts/state/index.html?src=gu


This is outdated -- I'm using it as an example. I would look for an updated version.
http://www.post-gazette.com/regionstate/19991101secretschart2.asp

[DaKCMan AP]

In my 8 years of coaching little league baseball I've never seen a team where the coach doesn't have a son on the team. It's a given.

When I played little league baseball our coach didn't have any kids. When I played pop warner football my first season the head coach had no kids on the team.

[RJ]

Hey Dylan, I don't think this thread has anything to do with schools. As far as I can tell it's Little League baseball.

[Dylan]

Thanks RJ... I was so mad reading Foxman's opening post, I thought it happened at school.


There's still a solution... I'll be back after Asscar's All Star race on SPEED.

They'll all be killing one another tonight 'cause it doesn't count. Payback time.

[BigRedChief]

When I played little league baseball our coach didn't have any kids. When I played pop warner football my first season the head coach had no kids on the team.
That way when I was a kid too. But those coaches have been chased out. It's not worth the hassle of dealing with parents if your kid isn't on the team. Just a sad fact. And now the Dad's helping out are getting chased out at the competitve level.

There are other issues involved if you are talking competitive baseball like the cost and travel.And the playing time and parental involvment escalates tremendously.

There are few compettive teams now in my area that are independent. Most are tied into and sponsored by baseball academies/training facilities that charge you $30-50 and hour or a couple of thousand a year to be a member.Thats one of the main reasons inner city kids don't play baseball anymore, the cost. My team would go through $7,000-$9,000 every spring/summer season and that didn't include their personal equipment like their $300 bats.

[foxman]

I asked this before but haven't seen an answer from Foxman - Does the coach have a kid on the team?

Yes. He is 10 I think.

[RNR]

Glad I'm not the only who thinks this guy needs to grow a pair. I was thinking about getting involved in little league football next year. This thread convinced me otherwise. I'd be much less likely to have any legal run ins if I spend my time out drinking and driving every night.

You will enjoy it, it is very time consuming and dealing with the parents is a pain in the ass. I have had men show up at my door who I coached when they were young just to chat and tell how they were doing in life.

It is a great feeling to know you had a positive effect on them. Many of the parents are looking for a babysitter, others are dads that never played sports or were not any good at it and try to force their kid to win the battles they lost.

Often they come from a broken home and you are the main male role model. A sad side note is one kid I coached whos dad was not a part of his life was always in trouble. He was a very tough kid and had a good heart although very guarded.

We talked for hours but I was unable to reach him. He ended up on the wrong side of a gun. It bugs me to this day wondering if I could have done more to save him. All and all I enjoyed it just do not have the time anymore. IMO it was worth every minute I spent over several years.

[foxman]

Follow Up:

So, we had a double header yesterday and we were pitiful as usual. A decision was made by the board however that will either eliminate the coach or make him a better coach. The board is suspending the coach this coming week and putting him on probation. He explained to the board that all he wanted to do was explain why the word suck was a bad thing to say which was met with alternative explanations that he could have used. Also, I understand he is writing a letter to the parents. My immediate response was that, well hopefully he can see that his comfort level with certain phrases is too high and I suspect the fact he is a family physician and used to talking privately with children and their parents he has lost touch with common sense. Hopefully this will help him to become a better coach but regardless, I am not comfortable with my 10 year old playing for him next season.

One other interesting thing I noticed was that there was someone in the dugout that I had never seen. I asked a couple of parents and know one knew who he was, it led me to wonder if in fact they didnt have someone there assigned by the board to keep tabs on things.

This coach is a nice person, but had IMO sever lapses in common sense. Hopefully this will reel him in a bit.

To those that say I should have spoken to him. I agree and I wish I had. I do have a temper and might have lost my cool with him and I really don't want to embarrass my child. Still though, I get what the many you are suggesting I should have done. I was surprised to find out the number of other parents already knew and their was things in the works before I wrote this letter. I think the fact that I was an eye witness to the offense carried some weight with the board.