LL Mandatory Play

[SanDiegoSteve]

Yes, I see what you mean. I misinterpreted your meaning behind the post.

[aceholleran]

Remember the original post was full of my reasons against MPR.

Another one was brought up by a poster. I have seen coachs--both in regular- and post-season play) emcourge "hurt" kids to stay home before key games.

I even know a coach who would conveniently suspend his 2-3 least-talented players during a practice right before a big game. The same guy would not inform certain kids about make-up games and other schedule changes.

Hmmm.

Ace

[GarthB]

For the most part, sand-lot ball, where I first learned to play, doesn't exist anymore. Kids aren't allowed to play uncoached, unsupervised and unfettered by parents. "Organized" youth sports not only dominate, in most areas they are the only option.

Every kid should be able to play up to a certain age. Personally, I think that prior to Frosh ball, every kid should have some place where he is able to swing a bat, field a ball and and run the bases. The fact that many don't is one reason that baseball has lost so much of its popularity with our young people.

Frosh ball is soon enogh for all kids to have to deal with "being good enough" to pay a game. For those who wish to teach their kids that lesson earlier, there are select teams available.

MPR appears to be Little Leagues way to keep baseball active in the heart of any kid who wants to participate. I applaud the goal even if the methodology is imperfect.