I was disheartened to learn that the Jackie Robinson West Little League team has been stripped of its Little League World Series American championship because of the cheating proclivities of the adults who run the league. It's never a good thing for a team to bring in ringers in order to bolster their chances in any sport, but to do it in Little League takes it to a whole other level. What are we teaching our youngsters? It's okay to cheat as long as you don't get caught?
I feel even worse for the youngsters who had nothing to do with the scheme. Unfortunately, it all boils down to a bunch of adult cheaters doing their thing and resulting in a group of young, impressionable kids having to pay for the misdeeds. What a sad commentary on today's society--win at all costs.
The problem with youth sports--be it baseball, football, soccer, or whatever--is the adults. The kids are out to have fun; the adults, mainly parents, are out to guarantee success for their kids. Not all parents are antagonistic and obnoxious. But there is that minority of parents who want their kids to be stars. They berate umpires, refs, and even coaches when their kids do not succeed. These, along with the hierarchy of the Jackie Robinson West team, should not be dismissed as only wanting to win. They should be excoriated for the example they are setting for the next generation.
