I don't agree with playing as elect few starters the entire game, however, they didn't cheat or bend the rules. The issue of some kids only getting a few minutes a game is an issue between the kids, parents and the coach.
The reality of tournaments is that there are mismatches. Simple human decency let alone sportsmanship would result in subs being played to make the game less of a blowout. These are 13 year olds not high school or college players. That is why Team 91's treatment of their reserves is not just an internal team matter.
The goals of youth club lacrosse should be for the kids to have fun and improve so they can be better in high school and college.
Unfortunately we have moved to where the goal of club lacrosse is to increase to glory and financial well being of the club and the club owner. The kids are just a means to that end.
Simple human decency and sportsmanship should also prevent holdbacks and playing down, but they don't.
I agree. Both the Crabs and Team 91 hold themselves out as being the best the sport has to offer when in fact the adults involved seem to be in a competition to demonstrate the worst in youth sports.
In the end, nothing is going to improve until other teams tell teams like the Crabs and Team 91 to go play with themselves and stop participating in tournaments and leagues where they are involved.
Reply
Quote
