I am the parent of a freshman at Smoky Mountain High who is enthusiastic about her participation on the softball team. At a parent meeting before the season began, we were reminded that high school sports is not the same as those offered by the Recreation Department. A student tries out for the team and may be cut. It is my assumption that if a student is not cut from the team, she possesses at least the minimum skills required to play. Because playing increases skill, I assume a coach is motivated to have all players involved.
Kids sit entire games on the bench.
I don't think so. If teamwork is an emphasis, playing all members would only strengthen the spirit of the team and increase the skill level of every player. My late husband, Scott Kelly, was a volunteer coach and loved every minute of it. His single most important commitment to each child was to let them play. If a kid had a good attitude and attended practices, he was proud to support them on the team.