I have been reading this thread for days now and I can't sit by any longer without saying something. The OP on this thread brings up some very interesting points in regards to the administration and the current flock of parents but doesn't seem to ever want to do anything about it. I too sat in on the meeting and watched the Superintendent tell the OP that he had said enough (a few times) and it was someone elses turn to make a suggestion. It seems as though the OP is a great judge of talent and knows quite a bit about the game (not only school ball but travel as well) why not throw your hat into the coaching box? I've seen you around and we have talked on several occasions. You are certainly willing to give your opinion in regards to game time situations and what should or should not happen. I personally think with all your knowledge and know how that you would make a perfect candidate for the position. The deadline is December, if we can ever get this program back on track.
As for the girls not having the talent to play in college - well I'm not sure about this one. I will tell you that folks like Cameron and Sarich have been working with the 9th and 10th graders since they were in the 7th grade. Taking them to summer softball tournaments and building a nucleaus of girls who want to play ball and want to get better. It is a shame that seasons past may ruin the chance for the 9th graders to step on the field whether it be JV or Varsity.
Is there parent involvement that has tarnished the program, yes! Are we willing to come together and support our board and make the changes necessary, absolutely! But I will say the AD and staff need to make a push to get girls to play JV ball and assure the kids that if they want to play that there will be a JV program. Can you tell me the last time GV had a JV program? I know the impression out there is that they don't have the girls to form a team but I'm telling you that's false. Many parents sat in the meeting and were blown away that there is actually a paid position for a JV Head Coach. Many of them have been told it is varsity or nothing. Just think about how many girls the program lost to not having an opportunity to go anywhere and play. Can you tell me the name of the JV coach that was hired last year or the year before? I really have a hard time believing that there was actually one in place.
As for coaches, I believe one of the former players said it best "We need consistency in the Head Coach position". 4 head coaches in 6 years is absolutely absurd and if the coaches left because of parent involvement then some of the blame lies on the AD. There must be consequences for parents who step out of line! Yes, I agree but there must also be consequences for those that have allowed it to get this far.
In the end, I hope this program gets back on it's feet. I have a daughter that has been playing travel ball since she was in the 5th grade. Yes, we have stepped outside the bubble and I agree our school program could use a good dose of reality but to punish the kids is the wrong way to go about it. This community needs to realize it isn't them playing ball but it's the kids and this is too valuable to ruin for them.
OP, I once ran into you at a fall ball tournament and I was wearing a Grandview Softball shirt. You turned to me and said, "Grandview Softball, I would be embarrassed to wear that shirt". I have never forgotten that and I hope someday you will change your mind.
BTW, my DD will be playing for the Classics this weekend in one of the best 14U tournaments around. Come by, we'll talk and maybe you can let me know if she has any talent.