Calling coaches and players by first names

[Mountaineer]

Personally I don't have a problem being called by my first name. Actually in the first inning as I get ready to take my position, I look at the catcher and ask her name . . . I then say "Hi Ashley (assuming that's her name), I'm Larry". I also find that if a coach has a problem or wants to make a change they call me blue - if it's something where it's just the two of us they will call me by name - both in HS and college. I've forged a lot of good relationships over the years and never had one problem out of it. I guess if I only have a problem or two every 8 or 9 years (and remember, I've had none yet) . . . that's a small price to pay for the good relationships, IMHO.