Politics in Youth Baseball...Time for Reform

I have been affiliated with baseball for many, many years and have seen the damage as a result of 'politics' and 'gaming the system', especially at the youth level. Why can't we remind ourselves that little league baseball was made for kids.  Grown-ups only screw it up. There are numerous examples that occur on a daily basis.  Winning and losing is more important to coaches and parents than the children. Coaches often play their child or friends' children in certain positions (e.g., pitcher) and are much more tolerant of their mistakes than those of other kids. Selection of an "all-star" team which excludes some kids with excellent statistics and playing abilities in favor of some kids whose parents knew the coaches, were relatives, etc.  It seems to be all about "who you know". On of my personal favorites is the Little League Board member and coach of a team having "special privileges" on dates, times, playing field locations and having an imbalance on homes versus away schedules.  When does it stop?  For what purpose does it serve? It only serves to give Little League baseball and organized youth sports a black eye and a caustic reputation.  No wonder certain parents and their talented children flee from the game and seek refuge with less team-oriented sports like running or tennis.  At least they have greater control of their destiny.

It seems to be human nature that we, as parents, just cannot help ourselves.  In my opinion, true reform will only happen when a League makes changes at the Board level.  This is where it starts and where it must be modified.

The local league Board of Directors, elected from and by the adult members of the league, is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the league within the rules, regulations and policies of Little League. This board is not suppose to have the authority to alter, suspend or change any of the rules, regulations or policies of Little League. However, wide latitude is given to this board in many areas of operation so that the "local needs" (whatever that means) of the community may be met. I would like to see a Board composed of independent membership that have no ties to the league. Only in this manner will decisions be made without consideration to a Board member's child and the affect it will have on their playing time or future.


What are some other ways this can be stopped?