SAGEMONT-BEVERLY HILLS LITTLE LEAGUE: News

May 12, 2011

Dear SBHLL Family:

As we enter the home stretch of the 2011 season, I wanted to take a few minutes to share some observations and reminders with everyone. Our SBHLL Family includes all managers, coaches, players, parents and friends of SBHLL who are participants or spectators in our League. Whether you come out to the ballpark or just to the practice fields we consider every one of you a member of our League.

As in years past, as the temperatures rise so do tempers. Over the past several weeks, there has been a rise in disrespectful behavior between individuals at the ballpark and an increase of unsportsmanlike conduct displayed by coaches and players. I want to take this opportunity to ask everyone to lighten up and remember the true reason we are participating in this League. I know how hard it is for us to keep our feelings in check especially as it gets hotter outside. Sports unleash a wide range of emotions, from euphoria to despair to even anger and all of them are heightened by the adrenaline rush that comes from competition. It’s that emotional thrill that makes sports so enjoyable. BUT we have to remember that our players are just kids who are not only learning baseball but life lessons through baseball. They are learning about teamwork, loyalty, good sportsmanship, how to be a winner and a loser as well as how to deal with situations that don’t always seem fair or go their way. The kids will make mistakes. So will the adults who coach them, umpire for them, and run this League for them. Give everyone your patience and encouragement. Our players and children will take their cue from the adults so be mindful of your behavior and your role in setting the example for our children.

Additionally, we must also remember that our so-called opponents are also our neighbors and friends. So, no matter how intense the competition gets on the field, we ALL need to leave those feelings behind once we leave the field. Inside the fence, we play hard to win; Outside the fence, we are all friends and part of one community.

I am extremely proud of our League and look forward great Playoff, District and All-Star play for our players. I know that the kids have had a great time playing baseball this year and I want that to continue for the remainder of the season.

Little League is an experience that we should all enjoy together whether you are a parent, player, manager, coach or spectator. Let us all keep some perspective. We can’t guarantee that every kid will become a superstar, but we can work together so the children of our community can learn how to play ball and learn some invaluable life lessons along the way.

Sincerely,
Jason Carter
SBHLL President