I have read a couple letters to the editor regarding Little League coaches with bad mouths, etc. While my son has not participated in Little League, he has participated in two seasons of Oak Harbor Youth Soccer. My husband coached both seasons while I assisted and participated as soccer mom. My husband coached with little background in soccer because he believes in giving back to the community and because there is such a shortage of parents who volunteer their time to coach. I agree with Renee Bayliff’s letter that coaches should not use foul or disrespectful language to children. However, I would like to see parents becoming more involved with their children’s sports.

Coaches possibly wouldn’t become so frustrated if parents were willing to jump in, without being asked, to help assist. It can be something as simple as helping chase balls, but help is always needed. Last season we coached U-8 boys soccer. We had 6- and 7- year-old children being dropped off at the school while the parents took off only to return later during the game. We had children being dropped off without a water bottle or proper uniform attire. We’ve seen parents who spent the game socializing instead of watching their children.

Coaches are there to coach — not to babysit. The frustration for the coaches grow when they have to combine coaching with babysitting and controlling out-of-control kids. We love all our players and enjoy coaching but getting soccer balls and jerseys thrown in your face can create a high level of stress. Coaching is a tough job and we should be thankful that there are people out there willing to devote their time and energy to our children. Let’s make it easier for all the coaches by doing our part to help.

Kathleen Parra

Oak Harbor