All things the same (or close) the reality is - political or friendly ties will always win out.
A HS coach SHOULD always want to put the best team on the field. But "best" takes on a lot of meaning. In best you never know what weighs more Skill or Attitude.
If you feel your child is not getting the play time they deserve, sit your child down let them know this not only happens in HS on the fields but on the stage for those students in the arts, some students may not get into a college of their choice (academically) only to have their friend and neighbor (who is not as qualified) get in. It happens its life.
But here you do have a voice and never silence it. If you feel you are in the right and confused on the actions, have the player reach out and have an adult conversation with the coach. Have them ask what can be done to see more time on the field. If you feel you need to be present when the conversation happens (bcause it has already gotten to this level) by all means get involved as a witness and mentor to guide your child after the conversation.
But be careful, you may not like what you hear. You may hear a lot more work is involved than you thought. You may have to take of those "Rose colored Glasses".
Sounds like a job for Dr. Richard D. Ginsburg.
Just remember you are asking to take playing time away from another child (potential friend/neighbor) who may question what just happened.
