I’m Proud

Even though this reporter doesn’t have any players on this county’s Little League teams, some of the coaches who are still teaching baseball were coaching my boys “back in the day.”

I still keep up with the teams that are playing and I am proud of the values these coaches instill in their players.  Win or lose, it still remains “on how you play the game.”

If anyone has kept up with the national scene, the girls’ Little League softball team from the Atlee community near Richmond has brought shame and disappointment for the actions of six players.  These players range in age from 12 to 15.

This softball team made it to the national play-offs in the state of Washington which proved their ability to play at an excellent level.  They were scheduled to appear on ESPN in the play-offs when they posted an offensive photo on public media against an opposing team.  The posted picture was immediately pulled by their coach but the damage was done!

The team was dismissed from play.  What they thought was cute was very hurtful.

This “teachable” lesson hurt the team, their community, the state of Virginia and themselves.  Six girls on the team were responsible for the photo that got the whole team banned from play after a season that got them to the nationals.

I’m proud to say that our Little League teams are taught to respect the opposing teams, win or lose.  Sportsmanship should be instilled first and foremost to any team just learning the ropes or to a well-seasoned team.

Always remember that actions speak louder than words.

The P is for prayer before games.  The R is for respect to your opponents.  The O is the one-on-one learning experience. The U is the understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and the D shows the dedication of all coaches and team players.

This reporter is proud of all our Charlotte County teams and coaches.  Keep up the good work in seasons to come.  Our Charlotte County coaches are keeping our kids busy and out of trouble.  Thank You!  You had a great season!

Congratulations to all who participated!