Frustrating football saturday

     This weekend, we headed up to Coeur d' Alene to watch my youngest son play football game in his first season of junior tackle.  He was so, very excited that I was there to watch him.  His game was not until 3:00, so we spent the early afternoon warming up with drills, and talking about different defensive situations.  We had a great time.

     I introduced myself to the coach shortly before the game, but as the game progressed I became increasingly frustrated with his coaching style.

     Junior tackle football is the first introduction for these young kids to "real" football.  It is designed for kids to learn the game, and progress as players so they will be ready for the time that they play more serious ball.  I noticed right off the bat that the coach was friends with most of the parents from the team, and I noticed that there were several players that played both offense and defense the entire game.  All the time, my son was on the sideline..so I bit my tongue and waited until the middle of the 2nd quarter.  Justin plays the safety position, like his father, so ever since his decision to play football I have taught him a lot about this position.

     So, we are in the middle of the 2nd quarter, and I notice that the coach is becoming frustrated with his safety position not paying attention, lining up wrong, etc.. So I simply said "you got a good safety right next to you coach.."  So, Justin went in.  He did great!  didn't fall for play fakes, did not fall for reversals, and played his zone extremely well.  Even saved a touchdown from the other team.  Did he receive any recognition from his coach?  NO!  Instead, he spent another quarter watching the game from the side while the teams running back, who also happens to be the coaches son, was playing safety on defense!  

     I did refrain from further words with the coach, as I was upset..I do NOT want to be one of those dads, but I am confused on 2 levels..how is a young kid supposed to progress as a player without playing, and why would you not keep a kid in when he is doing a great job?

     On the positive side, Justin was the happiest kid I have ever seen, and he is loving the game of football!  He was just thrilled I was there to see him get some great tackles.  

     I have asked his mother to keep me posted on the games that I cannot be there for, and...for now, I will not email or communicate with the coach.  I will keep working with Justin on drills, and conditioning and we will see where it goes.

     On another note, the Seahawks host the 49ers this evening, and I am very much looking forward to the party and game this evening!  GO SEAHAWKS!