I’ll be honest with you, I’d like to hear from Bretman for his take on the issue of team chanting that includes degrading comments directed at the opposite team. I agree the whole thing is tasteless and most clubs that allow that kind of behavior get a “reputation” that flows thru the softball circles. The problem is; I don’t remember anyone ever being made to quit and I’m not sure a rule is in place to empower umpires to police it. I realize you are probably new to this stuff (assuming because of your OFC name) and chanting is found throughout the sport (unfortunately) at all age levels. Look at how the College World Series was played. You had girls beating on the dugout, chanting, screaming, pointing fingers and laughing, all done to distract the opponent. It’s there and a part of the game. Some clubs allow it----others do not.
Personally, I refuse as a coach to allow degrading chants and at times have made the girls quit chanting at all. It must be the cheerleader in them or something and I know for some, playing the game without chanting would be like making me talk while sitting on my hands. Some of the chants seem so innocent, yet send a message that if you’re paying attention has a negative twist. The one that comes to mind is where the worms need a helmet. Lol. I still think it’s funny but a pitcher may not.
I guess the real issue I heard about was the kids banging on the dugout fencing, trying to shake it to the ground in an effort to distract the pitcher. Sooner or later, there has to be a limit and I don’t know where you draw the line. I’ll let you in on a secret, depending where you travel to play, the chanting gets much worse!
I’d appreciate some answers on this subject. Are there actually any rules in place that were broken here? Until then, make sure to tell the kids to stay focused and block that stuff out. All of us could use some thicker skin but more importantly, the players need their head in the game. Don’t fall into the other team’s trap for it surely will continue if they believe it’s working.
