The arrest of an East Meadow mother who allegedly threatened Little League officials when her son didn’t make the summer travel team raises disturbing questions. The first of course relates to the mental stability of the mother if she in fact did threaten and make false accusations against the officials.
But the larger issue is whether the pressure and competitive spirit in some children’s sports have gotten out of control. In some Little Leagues coaches target and begin grooming children at very young ages for future play in the majors and all star teams.
Sports can be the ticket to a free college education and in rare cases a lifetime of wealth in professional sports. But the purpose of Little League or any children’s sport is fun for the kids and their parents.
Coaches should teach the basic skills, sportsmanship and the importance of team play.
Batting averages, making the travel team and winning championships should follow only at a great distance.
A Blank Slate Media Editorial
