Problem Players

Hi Coach Scott,

I had my share of "problem Players" over the years. I was, to borrow a phrase, appalled at the intensity in the first Draft I participated in, and consequently declined to draft thereafter. (Huge competitive local League)
I simply asked for the "leftovers" to do an 'instructional team', but participated in League play nevertheless. I had lots of "problem players" over the years as you might imagine since these were the kids no one else cared to draft.
Some already had a "reputation".

Some were from a single parent family, (usually a mom who worked very hard and could not spend the time helping that some others might have.) I use the phrase, might have, because as it turned out, those single moms were usually very motivated on behalf of their kids or they wouldn't have signed them up in the first place. As a "category" they were wonderful. They helped more with their limited time, than LOTS of others more fortunate did.

Some were simply troubled kids.

Some were only a tool to bolster their father's ego.

Some were simply angry...usually with good reason.

Some I was able to reach, and Lord, what a joy.

Some, I lost. It still hurts!

Bean's About Baseball was written out of that context and history.

One thought I'll place here: From day one, if possible, or TODAY if not, Find a way to get down to eye level with the kids without bending over to them! Do this ALL THE TIME! Take a knee for a conversation when they are standing. Sit down on the grass with them when they are sitting on the grass. Take a knee when you are talking to them while they sit on the dugout bench.
By this one simple gesture of respect, you change the whole paradigm of the relationship. ( It wouldn't hurt if you took this particular "problem player" out to the outfield, sat down on the grass with him, and simply and sincerely asked his permission to be his friend and his coach and see where the relationship might progress from there.)

E-me at beans@pdq.net and we can talk further.
Best regards
Bean