Being new to the game, not THE game but the 'Heybucket' game I felt inclined to chime in.
Good grief people, are you kidding me? I have tried to look at this from every possible angle. As a parent, as a team manager, as a coach, as a dad, as a board member. I have been involved in THE game wearing many hats. Seems the coaches mentioned have done just that COACHED. Seems like the LM rep has a reason to feel the need to defend his coaches and organization. Good for him. I look forward to seeing the opportunity that these changes have created for NorCal Fastpitch!!
As a parent: All that we can hope for is that our daughter is coached by someone that wants to teach. Seems like that is all the former Breeze coaches have done over the last few years. To have our daughters be part of something that teaches life long lessons that she will take with her long after softball is behind her. Play for an organization that wants what I want, which is experience and integrity for the game. Looks like LM has it and wants it.
As a team manager: You hope to create a healthy environment, one of mutual respect between coaches/players/parents. This is not an easy feat. After all, we're talking differing personalities.
As a coach: Each time I'm out on the dirt I hope to teach something and learn something. Coaches keep learning, that's why its important to be willing to make a change and not get complacent. Coaching youth softball will never make you a rich man. The wealth you attain resides in the heart. Its a volunteer position people.
As a dad: Most of us caught a glimpse of something special in our kid early on. Whether it be with a bat, a ball or a glove. The desire to learn was apparent. Hard work and perseverance in our kids is what keeps us from putting our feet up at the end of our work day so we can play catch and work on swings.
As a board member: These are non-profit organizations. That doesn't mean that it doesn't take hard work and money to run. We do this because we want to help our communities and our children today and in the future.
If you haven't volunteered in any of these capacities to date, maybe you should. When you put as much time and energy into not only your child but everyones child, you see why the LM rep here has felt the need to defend.
Looks to me that the former Breeze coaches have done nothing but help make a new opportunity for their kids and yours. Who are we to criticize their choices? Let's not be selfish, lets be encouraging. After all, it's for the kids yes?
Time will tell. Until then, take the 'feelings' out of your post and try again. Keep it simple.
Good luck to the new LM 12U Coaches. May your tryouts be a huge success.
