a letter to one of the parents on our Little League team

As the assistant coach of the Rangers, I had the misfortune of hearing you lambaste Coach Mike during tonight's game.

And while I appreciate your seemingly civil tone after the game, I hope you'll consider sending an apology to the parents who heard your uncalled for tirade. I'm only glad my family -- including my mother visiting from California -- left moments before your outburst. Sadly, the kids on the bench and most of the parents were within earshot of your remarks and subjected to your totally inappropriate behavior. I can't envision a more embarrassing or lower point of the season, which is saying something given, as you loudly pointed out, our on-field performance.

Do I need to say I share your frustration? Of course I do. As a coach and parent, I want to win. Deeply. I want my son to do his best. I want all the kids to succeed wildly, to learn the game, to play it well. I'm delighted by the little successes and breakthroughs we see at practice. Some are about baseball. Some aren't. These kids are 9. They're still learning the game and how to get along with others. They're out to have fun. I hope they do. I think that's still the point. Which stands in contrast to the view you shouted to Mike that "this isn't any fun for the parents." Wow. Has it really come to this?

When I raised my hand to be a coach, I was naive enough to think the challenge would be in managing the kids. Tonight, I was reminded how wrong my thinking was. Having said that, I'm grateful for and impressed by most of the Rangers' parents who continue to exhibit patience and support for the players, the coaches, and the team.

I only hope the next time you approach the dugout, you'll come with encouragement for the kids who, in my opinion, are learning and trying their best. Or for Coach Mike who continues to sacrifice his time, money and energy to do what he thinks is best for the kids who make up the team.