Sitting in the stands during a WestSpringfield and South County HS varsity game the following happened:

The player for South County struck out, then went ballistic by throwing his equipment and yelling at the top of his lungs Goddamnit, Goddamnit, Goddamnit.

The umpire told the coach that this player was out of control.

What was not done: The varsity coach for South County did nothing. The player was not removed from the game and played the field the next inning.

This was a total disgrace for high school sports and should not happen in front of players, adults and their children.

Unfortunately, high school baseball, among most other sports I'm sure, is all about politics. The coaches don't play players based on their skills and attitudes alone, but based on other things such as name, reputation and parents contributions such as coaching, boosters and concession stand volunteering. Brown nosing?

Just wait until the SOCO JV coach starts coaching varsity. I played under him and his current assistant coach on the JV squad for 5 years and he DOES NOT put up with any bullshit.

Why didn't the ump just run him for arguing balls & strikes?

I think the real problem is the varsity coach Mark Luther. He plays favorites and one of his assistant has a son who plays on the varsity and starts as a junior.

Eastsider Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Why didn't the ump just run him for arguing balls
> & strikes?


This.

why is the piece of shit crying after being struck out? what is he, 6?

umm hello? Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> why is the piece of shit crying after being struck
> out? what is he, 6?

No he is 18 and the teams captain. What a role model?

Yeah, ump should have ejected him if he thought it was that big a deal. That is an officiating error if anything... the coach can put in whoever he damn well wants unless the ump says so.

Was he yelling at the umpire or was he just mad about striking out? I watch a lot of High School games. Not really that unusual. Not that I condone it though.
If it was my kid I would have pulled him out myself.
The part about playing favorites, welcome to High School sports. That problem is rampant. I saw it when I played in HS and now 30 years later. You really have to wonder if there is money being paid under the table. Not saying there is though.

To: Jane.Lipp@fcps.edu
Sent: 4/20/2009
Subj: Varsity baseball Games this weekend


As a parent of a player, how is it that, the captain of the Varsity baseball team(Seth Jordan)can scream at the top of his lungs (God damn-it 3 times) throw his helmet in the dugout, be warned by the umpire (Directly to Coach Townsend) and still play in the game and the following game against Bishop Ireton? I'm sure I am not the only parent that has brought this to the schools attention.
I am appalled at what coaches do (or in most cases don't do) to protect there better players. This is totally unacceptable behavior from the player and even worse unacceptable leadership from Coach Luther and Townsend who did nothing and does nothing to Seth Jordan.

What is the schools responsibility?

A very angry parent who at the moment won't reveal a name due to retaliation against our son. What's right is right. Seth Jordan is a poor excuse for a captain (allow Digby the role) and the coaches are weak to stand up and apply values and rules that reflect the baseball team, players and families. How embarrassing to sit in the stands and witness a horrible act of stupidity. West Springfield parents aren't happy either. This is not the end.

ernie Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> The part about playing favorites, welcome to High
> School sports. That problem is rampant.

I think you mean welcome to the real world. Everyone plays favorites. Sometimes the favorite is the best performer, sometimes the favorite is the brown-noser.

Favorites play at South County Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I think the real problem is the varsity coach Mark
> Luther. He plays favorites and one of his
> assistant has a son who plays on the varsity and
> starts as a junior.

At last, we get to the point of this thread.

--------------------------------------------------------------
13 4826 0948 82695 25847. Yes.

heres a thought....

WHO GIVES A FLYING FUCK....
Attachments:

I am sure West Springfield has tape of the incident-that would be a great UTube clip. Maybe then FCPS and Bill Curran will be so humiliated that they will do something.

Some of these coaches and players are out of control and reflect badly on our schools. At a girl's soccer game a few wek's back, the Stuart coach was ejected by the ref, he stayed behind the visiting bleachers continuing to shout and the ref had to stop theplay again. Finally, the home team's football coach, who was attending the game, had to escort the lunatice out to the parking lot.

This is the example we set for our students? As long as FCPS soed nothing to punish the nuts, then it will continue to get worse.

I think that everyone is blowing this WAY out of proportion. High school or not when you get to a certain level as a player the game takes on a new meaning for you. Most of the time serious players do well to internalize their emotions however even the best of us let them slip out every now and again, and it isn't always pretty. As an umpire he did the right thing, gave a WARNING. As a coach, during the course of a game, he did the right thing as well and it isn't about favorites. As a coach you want your players to be intense, to care about their performance and to be angry when they don't perform well. During the course of the game, unless the kid is going to physically hurt someone, you do nothing. You let the kid ride that intensity for the balance of the game. After the game is over you pull the kid aside and use that time as teaching time.

Like it or not, EVERYONE's kid on that field that day, whether SOCO or West Springfield, has had a moment like that on the field or in the dugout, whether at practice when you the parent aren't there to see what happens or during a game and people just didn't happen to notice. A reaction of such isn't going to poison the game for these kids, they understand the emotion of the game and will chalk it up to just that. It's the parents who need to realize that they aren't watching a bunch of 12 year olds out there playing to just have fun anymore. The kids are out there solely to WIN. The only way that they will have fun is to WIN. There is no consolation prize, second place is just the first loser. You should appreciate the fact that the team CAPTAIN cares so much about his team, which your kid is a part of, that he is pissed that he failed to produce results when it was his time.

Life is about failure and how you deal with each one. Even if you bat 500 you are making out half the time. Does this give you the right to blow up each time you make out because you want to win? NO

Play the game.

Upset Parents Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> To: Jane.Lipp@fcps.edu
> Sent: 4/20/2009
> Subj: Varsity baseball Games this weekend
>
>
> Seth Jordan is a poor excuse for a
> captain (allow Digby the role) and the coaches are
> weak to stand up and apply values and rules that
> reflect the baseball team, players and families.


I have been a teammate of both of these players and the event I'm hearing about doesn't surprise me one bit. I'm glad Digby's good attitude is recognized by someone.

I never said it gave you the right to blow up every time and I bet this player has NOT blown up every time, but once in a while is acceptable and shouldn't be made a spectacle of.

I don't care if you bat .500, you are still going to be pissed off and angry each and every time that you don't get a hit. That is a part of being an SERIOUS athlete. As a hitter, you have the mind set that you are going to get a hit EVERY time that you step to the plate so when you don't you are pissed. The same goes for a pitcher, you expect to get every batter you face out and when you don't you are pissed. That is how you become better. You take the anger of your failures and are motivated to fix them so you work hard to do so.

Bullshit...this is HS sports, not college or the pros, where kids are effectively paid to produce. Obscenities uttered on the basketball court get technical fouls...EVERY TIME!

And it falls to the feet of the head coach to define acceptable behavior ON THE FIELD OF PLAY!

Luther himself is an obscenity-screaming nutcase; witness last year's Regional Tournament game againt Madison. Luther was out of the dugout, arguing balls and strikes the entire game, as well as any call that went against his team. He got "restricted to the dugout" by the home plate umpire for one set of protests, but his agonized screams of "thats a bullshit call" and " thats goddamn BULLSHIT, ump" were heard throughout the game by the Madison fans AND HIS OWN FANS RIGHT NEXT TO HIS DUGOUT.

http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/washingtonpost/access/1483966351.html?dids=1483966351:1483966351&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&date=May+24%2C+2008&author=Preston+Williams+-+Washington+Post+Staff+Writer&pub=The+Washington+Post&edition=&startpage=E.8&desc=Stallions+Triumph+In+Testy+Rematch (sorry, the Post archives doesnt print the whole article, by Preston Williams)

He had his headcase stud pitcher throwing that game too (drafted by the Orioles 3 weeks later in the subterrean rounds). On his second at-bat, he gets a curve ball in the dirt that bounces and hits him in the ankle..HBP (clearly not an attempt at plunkin the guy). Of course, the kid, being the head case he is, trots to first glaring at the Madison pitcher the whole way, etc etc.. So what does he do upon returning to the mound the next inning? Plants a 90 mph fastball in the back of the first Madison hitter. Dont tell me that wasnt done with the support and knowledge of Luther--you all know it was.

The behavior of Lither and SOCO, esp. their pitcher, was bad enough the entire game that they were escorted to their bus by the Madison AD, who's one of the most mild-mannered guys you'd ever meet. Oh, and by the way, the GODDAMMIT * 3 kid in this years story--was right there, as a SOCO Jr starter--watching the Pitcher/Luther diatribes and soaking up the "how to behave as a SOCO baseball player" lessons that Luther was dishing out.

I've got nothing against team spirit and wanting to win--dont get me wrong. HS coaches dont last long if they lose, just like the levels above them. At the same time, obscenities and vulgarity, in words and behavior, have no place in HS sports--EVER.

What I dont understand is why the SOCO parents and admin put up with this douchebag--most schools would have run his ass outta town already!

Looks like Mark Luther is the 7th grade principal too, in addition to the HS baseball coach?

http://www.fcps.edu/southcountyss/admin.html


Wonder how Jane Lipp (HS Principal) will deal with THAT can-o-worms?

Stay tuned, sports fans, for more on this story.....

(WTF is a 7th grade principal?)

______________________________________________
I have had to change the addresses to my retaliatory blogs over half a dozen times.

fairfaxdude Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Looks like Mark Luther is the 7th grade principal
> too, in addition to the HS baseball coach?
>
> http://www.fcps.edu/southcountyss/admin.html
>
>
> Wonder how Jane Lipp (HS Principal) will deal with
> THAT can-o-worms?
>
> Stay tuned, sports fans, for more on this
> story.....
>
> (WTF is a 7th grade principal?)

Where is the zero tolerance for this out of control coach. Mark Luther has a long track record of being out of control at both Hayfield and SOCO.

Jane Lipp now is the time to get rid of this poor excuss for a coach.

Fire his butt.

Luther has a track record Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Bullshit...this is HS sports, not college or the
> pros, where kids are effectively paid to produce.
> Obscenities uttered on the basketball court get
> technical fouls...EVERY TIME!
>
> And it falls to the feet of the head coach to
> define acceptable behavior ON THE FIELD OF PLAY!
>
> Luther himself is an obscenity-screaming nutcase;
> witness last year's Regional Tournament game
> againt Madison. Luther was out of the dugout,
> arguing balls and strikes the entire game, as well
> as any call that went against his team. He got
> "restricted to the dugout" by the home plate
> umpire for one set of protests, but his agonized
> screams of "thats a bullshit call" and " thats
> goddamn BULLSHIT, ump" were heard throughout the
> game by the Madison fans AND HIS OWN FANS RIGHT
> NEXT TO HIS DUGOUT.
>
> http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/washingtonpost/access/
> 1483966351.html?dids=1483966351:1483966351&FMT=ABS
> &FMTS=ABS:FT&date=May+24%2C+2008&author=Preston+Wi
> lliams+-+Washington+Post+Staff+Writer&pub=The+Wash
> ington+Post&edition=&startpage=E.8&desc=Stallions+
> Triumph+In+Testy+Rematch (sorry, the Post
> archives doesnt print the whole article, by
> Preston Williams)
>
> He had his headcase stud pitcher throwing that
> game too (drafted by the Orioles 3 weeks later in
> the subterrean rounds). On his second at-bat, he
> gets a curve ball in the dirt that bounces and
> hits him in the ankle..HBP (clearly not an attempt
> at plunkin the guy). Of course, the kid, being the
> head case he is, trots to first glaring at the
> Madison pitcher the whole way, etc etc.. So what
> does he do upon returning to the mound the next
> inning? Plants a 90 mph fastball in the back of
> the first Madison hitter. Dont tell me that wasnt
> done with the support and knowledge of Luther--you
> all know it was.
>
> The behavior of Lither and SOCO, esp. their
> pitcher, was bad enough the entire game that they
> were escorted to their bus by the Madison AD,
> who's one of the most mild-mannered guys you'd
> ever meet. Oh, and by the way, the GODDAMMIT * 3
> kid in this years story--was right there, as a
> SOCO Jr starter--watching the Pitcher/Luther
> diatribes and soaking up the "how to behave as a
> SOCO baseball player" lessons that Luther was
> dishing out.
>
> I've got nothing against team spirit and wanting
> to win--dont get me wrong. HS coaches dont last
> long if they lose, just like the levels above
> them. At the same time, obscenities and vulgarity,
> in words and behavior, have no place in HS
> sports--EVER.
>
> What I dont understand is why the SOCO parents and
> admin put up with this douchebag--most schools
> would have run his ass outta town already!

More details about Mark Luther:

The other night South County HS beat Madison HS 12 to 8 in a game that was a total disgrace to High School sports. This game was out of control from the first inning with players from both teams trash talking one another, pitchers throwing at each other and the umpires did almost nothing to stop this unacceptable behavior.

But the most intolerable behavior was displayed my the two managers who argued almost every call by coming out of the dugouts and confronting the umpires. It got so bad that the umpires told the South County manager that he could not come out of the dugout anymore.

This type of game has no place in HS sports and the two managers should not manage again for allowing this to occur.

There are thousands of suspensions every year for kids who are disrespectful to any teachers.

Why the zero tolerance for kids in schools and the unlimited tolerance for athletes and coaches?

Montgomery County gives out an annual sportsmanship award to a high school. Coaches, refs, etc vote and it is really an honor for a school to win the award.

Too bad FCPS isn't teaching good sportsmanship in our programs.

i'm thinking you retards don't know much about sports. or are big losers. or your sons are losers. or all of the above.

parents bitching about their little boys not being able to play? maybe he sucks and you look for any reason to attack and try to ease the reality that your boy aint as good as you or he thought.

but keep on bitchin' if it makes you feel better.


on the flip side, luther is quite the dick

what happens to kids Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------

> Too bad FCPS isn't teaching good sportsmanship in
> our programs.


This isnt an FCPS issue, dumbass!

FCPS spends plenty of time, energy and focus on Sportmanship in most of its schools (and i say "most" cause I havent been to games at ALL Northern region schools, just 3/4 of em), including required coach training, gym banners, AD training and monitoring. Some of the schools even have the PA announcers reminding fans about behavior, etc---which gets a little tedious after you hear it for 100 times.

The ISSUE here is a rogue coach, who thinks hes Tommy Lasorda, and to date hasnt been disciplined in any way by his administration at SOCO.

Dont start hijacking this thread as another banal attempt at besmirching the FCPS--its way off base.

Emeritus Q. Beaker Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> i'm thinking you retards don't know much about
> sports. or are big losers. or your sons are
> losers. or all of the above.
>
> parents bitching about their little boys not being
> able to play? maybe he sucks and you look for any
> reason to attack and try to ease the reality that
> your boy aint as good as you or he thought.
>
> but keep on bitchin' if it makes you feel better.
>
>
> on the flip side, luther is quite the dick

I have two kids who are Division one athletes and I understand what sports are all about.

This behavior is inexcusable and IS NOT TOLERATED AT THE COLLEGE LEVEL-espacially when the game is televised!!!

Even professional athletes are fined and sometimes suspended for bad sportsmanship. We should be teaching it to our kids at the high school level. And if this nut, Luther is a principal-holy cow-what does this say about the quality of FCPS administrators?

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 1st, 2008
Blake High School Awarded MCPS Sportsmanship Award

James Hubert Blake High School has been awarded the 2007-2008 Montgomery County Public School Sportsmanship Award. This prestigious award is given to one MCPS school each year.

The sportsmanship award is a reflection of the Blake community- a community that strives to provide excellence and sportsmanship, both in the classroom and through interscholastic athletic competition. The award also provides a $2000 monetary component that will be used to continue to make Blake High School a place where sportsmanship is not just a phrase but an expectation for all who participate in or attend their athletic contents. This championship award has been given out by MCPS for 6 years and Blake High School has won it three of those years.

At its essence, this is anther failure oh fcps administration. Where are the zero-tolerance freaks demanding the resignatin of this vulgar uncivilized coach. He is in clear violation of FCPS plicy. FCPS hypocrites strike again.

> And if this nut, Luther is a principal-holy
> cow-what does this say about the quality of FCPS
> administrators?


Maybe it just says something about Luther, and perhaps his immediate supervisor, the principal of SOCO HS?

Why so quick to generalize, when the behavior is really ONE PERSON?

______________________________________________
I have had to change the addresses to my retaliatory blogs over half a dozen times.

Its not an FCPS Issue! Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> what happens to kids Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
>
> > Too bad FCPS isn't teaching good sportsmanship
> in
> > our programs.
>
>
> This isnt an FCPS issue, dumbass!
>
> FCPS spends plenty of time, energy and focus on
> Sportmanship in most of its schools (and i say
> "most" cause I havent been to games at ALL
> Northern region schools, just 3/4 of em),
> including required coach training, gym banners, AD
> training and monitoring. Some of the schools even
> have the PA announcers reminding fans about
> behavior, etc---which gets a little tedious after
> you hear it for 100 times.
>
> The ISSUE here is a rogue coach, who thinks hes
> Tommy Lasorda, and to date hasnt been disciplined
> in any way by his administration at SOCO.
>
> Dont start hijacking this thread as another banal
> attempt at besmirching the FCPS--its way off base.

It is another FCPS failure. Students get expelled for zero tolerance violations and this shit head coach breaks the rules every time and gets nothing.

Where is Dale and Bill Curran when they let a pot head like this coach students?

Mark Luther and his staff need to be replaced by Jane Lipp.

Bert Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> At its essence, this is anther failure oh fcps
> administration. Where are the zero-tolerance
> freaks demanding the resignatin of this vulgar
> uncivilized coach. He is in clear violation of
> FCPS plicy. FCPS hypocrites strike again.

Where are the nazi brown shirts when you need them.

Luther has been acting like a ass hole for years.

Some interesting perspectives. Don't really want to touch on the favoritism thing as anyone that's ever coached has been accused of that at some point. The bad behavior in Northern Region HS baseball games is a legitimate gripe. I have watched a lot of games over the last few years and I've seen quite a bit of bad behavior. I've also seen some well behaved coaches and well disciplined teams. Among the elite teams here are a few examples of bad ones:

1) Robinson used to be notorious for lacking discipline. One of their kids (who has now been drafted) had a melt-down on the mound in the regional game a couple years back and another flipped off all the opposing parents at the end of the game. The new coach seems to have better control than the last.

2) South County has had a couple notorious incidents involving a pitcher (also drafted) that yelled "catch the F-ing ball" while being pulled in a game (nice team-mate huh?) and pretty much threw his glove from the baseline to the dugout every time he lost a game. The screaming by the player after K-ing is the second such I've heard of by a SC player this year.

3) West Springfield seems to encourage bad behavior too. A couple years back one of their players deliberately threw a ball into the opponents dugout during warmups - hitting a coach in the head. In the game with SC, the WS shortstop hit a HR, danced around the bases, and after crossing the plate spit in the direction of SC dugout and yelled "go home". Funny how all the outrage seems to be about the SC player - did you guys miss this?

I could go on. There are probably 3-4 more HS teams that have reputations of being punks. There are however some good ones.

I have never seen bad behavior from some of the following elite teams -

Oakton - They lost a great coach that provided that disciple for years but even with a team that has struggled this year, they have not changed their on-field decorum.

Lake Braddock - I've heard many things said about this coach but one thing is consistent - he runs a tight ship. I've never seen an LB kid throw a fit, helmet, or make an ass of himself. I suspect they all know that they'd warm the bench if they did.

Madison - Aside from the really annoying banter that comes out of this dugout, the team behaves well on the field. This coach is a Northern Region legend and his team competes hard but not to the point of becoming punks.

Given the number of Regional Championships won by these three teams recently, one would wonder if others shouldn't pay attention to the discipled way they operate.

A very long winded way of saying there are problem teams that need to tighten up there discipline, but I don't see a pandemic that necessitates an overhaul of the entire system. I'd hate to see a zero tolerance system in place that alleviates the responsibility of coaches to control there team. Focus on the problem actors, not the entire play.

Good post, Ray Ray...I agree almost 100%, and I've watched all these teams compete over the last 6-8 years.

How many Regional Championships does SOCO have...NONE! granted, fairly new school and all, but they wont have any,either--not with Luther at the helm.

And the SOCO pitcher-shitty teammate kid (drafted last year)? He's behaved like an ass from age 14 on-no wonder theres no mention of his name on the Orioles minor league rosters. Took his bonus, acted like an ass...and cut? Seems so.

I dont think some "systemic overhaul" is required either. Hopefully the publicity the SOCO baseball program is getting, from here as well as MANY other sources, will get the problem fixed. Jane Lipp, you paying attention?

I wasn't at the game, so I missed the WS shortstop crap--but its a fair guess that the crap coming out of the SOCO dugout motivated it--since that kid has always been a classy competitor in HS football (and on his way to DIV 1 ball in that sport). Not sayin he's blameless, but SOCO is outta control, and I'll give the SS the beneift of the doubt on this one.

______________________________________________
I have had to change the addresses to my retaliatory blogs over half a dozen times.

fairfaxdude Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Good post, Ray Ray...I agree almost 100%, and I've
> watched all these teams compete over the last 6-8
> years.
>
> How many Regional Championships does SOCO
> have...NONE! granted, fairly new school and all,
> but they wont have any,either--not with Luther at
> the helm.
>
> And the SOCO pitcher-shitty teammate kid (drafted
> last year)? He's behaved like an ass from age
> 14 on-no wonder theres no mention of his name on
> the Orioles minor league rosters. Took his bonus,
> acted like an ass...and cut? Seems so.
>
> I dont think some "systemic overhaul" is required
> either. Hopefully the publicity the SOCO baseball
> program is getting, from here as well as MANY
> other sources, will get the problem fixed. Jane
> Lipp, you paying attention?
>
> I wasn't at the game, so I missed the WS shortstop
> crap--but its a fair guess that the crap coming
> out of the SOCO dugout motivated it--since that
> kid has always been a classy competitor in HS
> football (and on his way to DIV 1 ball in that
> sport). Not sayin he's blameless, but SOCO is
> outta control, and I'll give the SS the beneift of
> the doubt on this one.

If there is crap coming out of the SOCO dugout, what is Luther and his staff doing? Sounds like nothing. That is the problem.

You have a coach that is out of control which equals a team out of control.

Just ask around if the F word is used by players and coaches at SOCO.

dahshiznat Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Unfortunately, high school baseball, among most
> other sports I'm sure, is all about politics. The
> coaches don't play players based on their skills
> and attitudes alone, but based on other things
> such as name, reputation and parents contributions
> such as coaching, boosters and concession stand
> volunteering. Brown nosing?
>
> Just wait until the SOCO JV coach starts coaching
> varsity. I played under him and his current
> assistant coach on the JV squad for 5 years and he
> DOES NOT put up with any bullshit.

Plus pay for play teams and clinics that Luther promoted. Luther is full of shit, just ask some of his players from his Hayfield teams.

fairfaxdude Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Looks like Mark Luther is the 7th grade principal
> too, in addition to the HS baseball coach?
>
> http://www.fcps.edu/southcountyss/admin.html
>
>
> Wonder how Jane Lipp (HS Principal) will deal with
> THAT can-o-worms?
>
> Stay tuned, sports fans, for more on this
> story.....
>
> (WTF is a 7th grade principal?)

Jane Lipp the principal at SOCO will do nothing and protect Luther.

Call her to complain about Mark Luther and his staff:

Jane Lipp
Principal
South County Secondary School
703-446-1605

From: SCSSParent
To: Jane.Lipp@fcps.edu, MAPflugrath@fcps.ed, MWLuther@fcps.edu
CC: William.Curran@fcps.edu
Sent: 4/20/2009
Subj: Re: Varsity baseball Games this weekend


Thank you Ms. Lipp for your reply to my email. I wasn't expecting a reply being I did not provide my name. As in my previous email, retaliation is very prominent as is favoritism and unfairness to equally skilled players. I don't want to go into that as of yet but have no problem revealing myself after the season. Seth is very well liked ( I understand that) but it doesn't excuse him from his behavior. I know if it were my son or others, things would be different. I let you know so that you were wise to what is really going on. You don't have to take my word for it at all, ask around to those you converse with and trust and I'm sure you will find a very close relationship to what I'm trying to bring to your attention. I was hoping you would seek validation in my words and make the correct decision to put a stop to it without getting innocent players and families involved. "Word" was out within 5 minutes across Fairfax County. It's not going to go away and to think you would brush this under the carpet is disturbing. I have never complained before as I know the norm is to be respectful to a Coaches decisions concerning his team. This act by Seth was so prevalent and wrong on so many levels that I'd like to think the school would take a more positive approach for the reputation of SCSS and sports in general and place a "0" tolerance to those accountable. To walk away with a blind eye and deaf ear is wrong, and unethical. If he didn't have a leadership role perhaps it wouldn't be as bad, but what kind of message are you sending to the team-mates of this "leader" who is allowed to behave with such awful profanity at a FCPS ball game that was filled with fans which included young children, respectful citizens and I'm sure those who found the words damning God offensive. He screamed it loud enough to hear across the field and into the parking lot.

For what it's worth... there are two Mark Luthers at SCSS. One is the Baseball coach/PE teacher, one is a Middle School Principal.

Just to clear that up for the guy who thought they were one and the same.

Don't you guys think the principal has better things to do with her time than worring about a batter saying "god damn it"?

Principals have to deal with all sorts of mundane bullshit, like who hosted the party on Saturday night that got 8 of his/her students arrested, who was there, who witnessed what, etc. OF course, he/she would never have to spend time on that if FC parents did THEIR job as parents, but thats another thread.

You wouldn't believe the time principals have to spend on petty, stoopid schoolyard larceny and pranks over the course of the average school year, either.

Spending time on juvenile behavior IS their job. It sucks for her that she has too; if only "Coach" Luther had done his job in an appropriate manner. Buck stops with the Lipp, I'm afraid.

______________________________________________
I have had to change the addresses to my retaliatory blogs over half a dozen times.

fairfaxdude Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Principals have to deal with all sorts of mundane
> bullshit, like who hosted the party on Saturday
> night that got 8 of his/her students arrested, who
> was there, who witnessed what, etc. OF course,
> he/she would never have to spend time on that if
> FC parents did THEIR job as parents, but thats
> another thread.
>
> You wouldn't believe the time principals have to
> spend on petty, stoopid schoolyard larceny and
> pranks over the course of the average school year,
> either.
>
> Spending time on juvenile behavior IS their job.
> It sucks for her that she has too; if only "Coach"
> Luther had done his job in an appropriate manner.
> Buck stops with the Lipp, I'm afraid.

Zero tolerance for Mark Luther, the same for all students in SCSS and FCPS.

Luther did not do his job, I hope you do you job and kick his ass out.

dahshiznat Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Unfortunately, high school baseball, among most
> other sports I'm sure, is all about politics. The
> coaches don't play players based on their skills
> and attitudes alone, but based on other things
> such as name, reputation and parents contributions
> such as coaching, boosters and concession stand
> volunteering. Brown nosing?
>
> Just wait until the SOCO JV coach starts coaching
> varsity. I played under him and his current
> assistant coach on the JV squad for 5 years and he
> DOES NOT put up with any bullshit.

Are you talking about Steve Lyons who has been kissing Luther ass for the last five years? Is he not the guy who collects the money for Luthers camps? Is he not the guy who coaches 13u and 14u teams for Luther?

Sounds like one more poor choice for a coach.

Parent Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I'd like to think the school would take a more
> positive approach for the reputation of SCSS and
> sports in general and place a "0" tolerance to
> those accountable.

I totally agree. Curse at a FCPS-sponsored event, EXPULSION!!!

If you are on school grounds watching an NFL game and one of those curse words in the background mic system occasionally gets through from a player and broadcast, the student has exposed the school community to a naughty word. EXPULSION!!!

If a student anywhere, non-sports or not, expresses any kind of emotion that is frustration or anger, whether it be a slight frown or a full-blown hissy fit, ZERO TOLERANCE!!! EXPULSION!!!

pgens Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Parent Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > I'd like to think the school would take a more
> > positive approach for the reputation of SCSS
> and
> > sports in general and place a "0" tolerance to
> > those accountable.
>
> I totally agree. Curse at a FCPS-sponsored event,
> EXPULSION!!!
>
> If you are on school grounds watching an NFL game
> and one of those curse words in the background mic
> system occasionally gets through from a player and
> broadcast, the student has exposed the school
> community to a naughty word. EXPULSION!!!
>
> If a student anywhere, non-sports or not,
> expresses any kind of emotion that is frustration
> or anger, whether it be a slight frown or a
> full-blown hissy fit, ZERO TOLERANCE!!!
> EXPULSION!!!

You miss the point, what the student said was bad, but the coaches action of doing nothing was unacceptable.

Maybe Mark Luther and Ms.Lipp do not know the rules?

They need to read the following:


Good sportsmanship is a top priority of the Virginia High School League. In fact, the
manner in which you and your team represent your school is far more important than
whether you win or lose the games you play. Good sportsmanship is all about
respect – respect for teammates and coaches, respect for opposing players and
coaches, respect for contest officials, and respect for the game. Please demand from
your players and team personnel that they treat all other teams, officials and tournament personnel with
courtesy and respect at all times, regardless of the situation. Please encourage your
fans to do the same. And, finally, please lead by your example.

BB Game Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> You miss the point, what the student said was bad,
> but the coaches action of doing nothing was
> unacceptable.

Let me rephrase then...

A kid expresses an emotion? EXPEL THEM! AND FIRE ANY TEACHER OR COACH CONNECTED TO THEM!! ZERO TOLERANCE!!

Your statement is irrelevant. To use Gods name as an expression of anger is disrespectful and wrong! Seth hit's his helmet, screamed that he "sucked". yelled that he quit and you still think this is acceptable? The kid has issues. Granted he's competeitive but he's defiantely not a leader in control. Wrong is Wrong. Seth was wrong, the coaches protected him and did nothing which makes it worse! The school is even more to blame for allo9wing it to take place and do nothing as well. West Springfields coach was upset at an umpire call and argued it but didn't get thrown out because he handled and accepted it. Good leadership even thoguh it took some time to get to that point. Seth was rediculous. Coach Luther is famous for not having what it takes to stand up for whats right. He's all about winning(which I agree, but at what cost), and the players who are good kids, and families who have raised there kids to be respectful are the victims of kids in leadership roles that can't lead.

Sitting the kid down seems a bit excessive. How did the kid play the rest of the game? Maybe the coach had a "come to Jesus" meeting with him after the game. What would it have done to the team's morale if the coach sat one of the team's best players in the middle of the game?

NO, you are not thinking. A kid who yells god damnit at the top of his lungs , throws his helmet, screams he "sucks", screams 'he quits" has issues. The coach did not have control of his player and allowed for this to be acceptable by doing nothing. I don't think Seth should be expelled but I do think he should be removed from the leadership role, and even miss a few games and serve detention. My kid (if he did it ) would have been expelled because he's not a super star. Seth is the kind of kid that you should be worried about. If he behaves like this in public, whats he like behind closed doors. Another VT concern perhaps in the future???? Who knows??

Come to a game #23 Seth Jordan blows up everytime he's not perfect! He loves to hit his head (helmet) the players laugh at thim! it's so stupid!

For starters it would have shown leadership. You do not behave like an idiot at the expense of your team. Look at the pros, or even college. Scouts will dump you in a second for acting like a baby! Coaches need to coach, not just the game but kids.

SCSS Parent Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> NO, you are not thinking. A kid who yells god
> damnit at the top of his lungs , throws his
> helmet, screams he "sucks", screams 'he quits" has
> issues. The coach did not have control of his
> player and allowed for this to be acceptable by
> doing nothing. I don't think Seth should be
> expelled but I do think he should be removed from
> the leadership role, and even miss a few games and
> serve detention. My kid (if he did it ) would have
> been expelled because he's not a super star. Seth
> is the kind of kid that you should be worried
> about. If he behaves like this in public, whats he
> like behind closed doors. Another VT concern
> perhaps in the future???? Who knows??

What do you mean, "I'm not thinking?" Fuck you, bitch.

lol

Put aside your usual FCPS ranting, and the foggy thinkin so evident in this thread, and let me reiterate the point...

1) the KID behaved badly, using profanity (loudly, from all reports) and throwing gear
2) Its a pattern of behavior over time with SOCO baseball players--NOT a solitary incident.
3) the Coach "apparently" did nothing...in fact, as the team leader he has exhibited much of the same behavior in the past--vulgarities, incessant arguing, etc.
4) There should be some recourse to FIX the problem. Most would agree with that.

Forget all this bullshit about "Zero Tolerance", etc...he didnt bring a weapon or drugs to school,fer chists sake. The ISSUE is the leadership of Luther, pure and simple; does it or does it not measure up to the standards of a FCPS coach?? Sounds like NOT.

Here's an excerpt from my son's contract to play summer ball this summer--we'll sign it in a day or 2(collegiate level):
1.The possession or use of illegal drugs will result in automatic dismissal from the team.
2.Refrain from swearing, both on and off the field.
3.Do not throw any equipment, including bats, helmets, gloves, etc., at any time.
4.Arguing with umpires is NOT permitted. Umpires are to be addressed as “Mr. Umpire.” They will not be addressed as “Hey Blue,” or “Hey Ump.”

There are other rules, to be sure--a page and a half of them. This excerpt covers the bahavior we're talking about. The contract goes on to spell out redress for violating the rules--suspension, and or dismissal. Bear in mind, these are rules of behavior for COLLEGE players--as they basically begin to get semi-paid, via scholarship, to play ball. We should somehow excuse HS players from the same expectations? BULLSHIT!

So for all of you "emotion in the face of battle" arguers...I say BULLSHIT.
My son's HS coach had the same rules--if you couldnt handle failure (and remember, baseball is about 75% failure), and had to swear or throw things like a 6 yr old..you were BENCHED. PERIOD. If it kept up, he'd take your uniform away--DISSSS-MISSED!

Somehow, this Luther guy doesn't get it...that he's the leader, his behavior will be mirrored by his players, he's the "adult" in charge, etc.

It REALLY isn't that hard to refrain from screaming GODDAMMIT at the top of your lungs, or to NOT throw helmets and gear around. It really isn't; especially if your gonna run til you puke at tommorrow's practice. Very simple to fix. Apparently, from all reports, Luther ain't much of a fixer.

Sounds like a change at the top is in order.

Heres the point....AGAIN Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------

>
> Here's an excerpt from my son's contract to play
> summer ball this summer--we'll sign it in a day or
> 2(collegiate level):
> 1.The possession or use of illegal drugs will
> result in automatic dismissal from the team.
> 2.Refrain from swearing, both on and off the
> field.
> 3.Do not throw any equipment, including bats,
> helmets, gloves, etc., at any time.
> 4.Arguing with umpires is NOT permitted. Umpires
> are to be addressed as “Mr. Umpire.” They will
> not be addressed as “Hey Blue,” or “Hey Ump.”
>


Hey, fucktard! What you posted here says NOTHING about being dismissed for swearing or throwing equipment. In fact, it says nothing about any kind of penalty if someone does it.

OK---the personal attacks and foul language being used on this thread need to stop!

I have a son in the SOCO baseball prgram and the Bottom line here - Vulgar language and unsportsmanlike conduct should not be tolerated AT ALL AND BY ANYONE in high school sports!! Players who display this type of behavior diminish the reputation of their schools and set poor examples for young players who may be watching. Mark Luther needs to discipline any player - on the spot - who behaves poorly.

Mark Luther genuinely cares about his players and the baseball program. He offers endless hours to this program, at the expense of time away from his family and his young daughters. He IS a good person an he IS a good coach so let's stop the cruel and slanderous remarks. He does need to demonstrate leadership and let his players know that there will be consequence to throwing equipment, using bad language and doing anything that disprespects the school or the game.

Also your personal attack against the JV coach is unwarranted. Clearly, you do not Know Steve Lyons or have not had a son who has played for him. He does not kiss anyone's butt. SOCO is fortunate to have him, and asst coach Tiamson, working with the JV.

You also need to get your facts straight. Mark Luther doesn't have "a camp" other than the one this winter offered at SOCO. During the off-season, Luther informs his players of a variety of training platforms. The players are not required to participate in any of them, Luther just lets them know their options. There are no personal gains.

Again,let's stop the personal attacks and encourage ZERO tolerance for disrespectful and unsportsmanlike game behavior-- of any kind.

SOCO baseball fan Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> OK---the personal attacks and foul language being
> used on this thread need to stop!
>
>

Fuck you! Nobody invited you to turn this forum into your own little SOCO Mini-Community.

If you don't like the language here, I suggest you go to Blogger.com and set up your own site.

WashingTone Locian Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> SOCO baseball fan Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > OK---the personal attacks and foul language
> being
> > used on this thread need to stop!
> >
> >
>
> Fuck you! Nobody invited you to turn this forum
> into your own little SOCO Mini-Community.
>
> If you don't like the language here, I suggest you
> go to Blogger.com and set up your own site.

They want the foul language to stop on this site, but they let the foul language to be used by some of the SOCO players when they play. Everybody knows what Luther allows because he has done it for years.

He should quit now.

WashingTone Locian Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
>
> Hey, fucktard! What you posted here says NOTHING
> about being dismissed for swearing or throwing
> equipment. In fact, it says nothing about any kind
> of penalty if someone does it.


"DISCIPLINARY ACTION

Disciplinary action for not adhering to team policies will be either a warning, suspension for a game or games, or dismissal from the team."


Happy now?

Here's the point....AGAIN Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> WashingTone Locian Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> >
> > Hey, fucktard! What you posted here says
> NOTHING
> > about being dismissed for swearing or throwing
> > equipment. In fact, it says nothing about any
> kind
> > of penalty if someone does it.
>
>
> "DISCIPLINARY ACTION
>
> Disciplinary action for not adhering to team
> policies will be either a warning, suspension for
> a game or games, or dismissal from the team."
>
>
> Happy now?

Yes. The coach gave him a warning (off the field). End of story. The coach doesn't have to do anything else. Get used to it or don't have your kid participate.

WashingTone Locian Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Here's the point....AGAIN Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > WashingTone Locian Wrote:
> >
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> > -----
> > >
> > > Hey, fucktard! What you posted here says
> > NOTHING
> > > about being dismissed for swearing or
> throwing
> > > equipment. In fact, it says nothing about any
> > kind
> > > of penalty if someone does it.
> >
> >
> > "DISCIPLINARY ACTION
> >
> > Disciplinary action for not adhering to team
> > policies will be either a warning, suspension
> for
> > a game or games, or dismissal from the team."
> >
> >
> > Happy now?
>
> Yes. The coach gave him a warning (off the field).
> End of story. The coach doesn't have to do
> anything else. Get used to it or don't have your
> kid participate.

Over the last four years how many warnings has Luther given to the player? How many games has he been suspened?

In addition, this player hazed non senior players on the varsity by cutting their hair off. Luther was there and once again did nothing.

WashingTone Locian Wrote:

> Yes. The coach gave him a warning (off the field).
> End of story. The coach doesn't have to do
> anything else. Get used to it or don't have your
> kid participate.


Wow, this thread has a life of its own! LOL

Did I miss something? Where did any of the game attendees say that Luther gave the kid a "warning, off the field"? I don't believe that was offered into evidence, sir!...lol


Damn, when's the next SOCO game? Its a byooooo-tiful day for baseball! Some sun, the crack of the bat, a few choice curse words and histrionics....could life get any better?

______________________________________________
I have had to change the addresses to my retaliatory blogs over half a dozen times.

Good thing i checked!

South County plays Annandale tonight, 630pm, at Annandale.

Some of you pasty white FFXU geeks ought to go get some sun, watch a lil-bit-o America's pastime, and bring your lucid observations (as opposed to your usual ones) back to FFXU for further study.

______________________________________________
I have had to change the addresses to my retaliatory blogs over half a dozen times.

fairfaxdude Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> WashingTone Locian Wrote:
>
> > Yes. The coach gave him a warning (off the
> field).
> > End of story. The coach doesn't have to do
> > anything else. Get used to it or don't have
> your
> > kid participate.
>
>
> Wow, this thread has a life of its own! LOL
>
> Did I miss something? Where did any of the game
> attendees say that Luther gave the kid a "warning,
> off the field"? I don't believe that was offered
> into evidence, sir!...lol
>

Seriously, you don't think Luther has that one to throw out there when he is challenged?

The coach keeps his job based on how many games his team wins. Not by how many parents of kids on the opposing teams bitch and whine. If he has to let his most talented players act like assholes in order to keep them on his team, that's what he is going to do.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/21/2009 02:33PM by WashingTone Locian.

SOCO parents are different, ya see. They're unique. Special. They now more about HS sports than the coaches, so they git to call the shots through the interwebs. Duh.

Once again FCPS does nothing. No interviews, no investigation, no looking into the complaint. Ms.Lipp is like the three monkeys, see nothing, speak nothing, hear nothing.

Read her bull shit response to a parent and see makes $175,000 dollars.

See needs to go out the door with Luther.


From: JHLipp@fcps.edu
CC: MAPflugrath@fcps.edu, MWLuther@fcps.edu
Sent: 4/20/2009
Subj: RE: Varsity baseball Games this weekend


Dear SCSS Parent,

Thank you for your email and comments. I must say that in our daily communication here at SCSS, we have the expectation for and encourage all parties to identify themselves. This allows for direct conversations that promote communication and facilitate positive results.

That being said, I have shared and discussed your concerns with Mr. Pflugrath, our Director of Student Activities, and Mr. Luther, our Varsity Baseball Coach. They would be more than happy to speak with you regarding this situation. As you know, there are many aspects involved in leading and coaching our teams. There are also many people who are part of this process and there are numerous strategies implemented in working with our student athletes. I have found over the years, that it is important to speak with those most closely involved in a particular situation and thus be sure that one has all of the information before making judgements.

Please consider contacting our staff via telephone to further discuss this situation.

Jane Lipp

Jane Lipp
Principal
South County Secondary School
703-446-1605

Now that's a helluva concept. "Got a problem with someone, take it up with them"...

So make the call SOCO parents. Do something other than bitch.

Typical FCPS response-how dare you accuse one of our employees of wrongdoing!!!!

Every Fortune 500 company has a company risk management/integrity line that ENCOURAGES people to report unethical behavior-AND it guarantees anonymity.

Why should a parent of a player have to subject themselves to retaliation from this coach?

Jane Lipp-DO YOUR JOB or get the hell out of our schools!!!!

Our kids deserve better than these losers.

Nothing being done by Ms. Lipp Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Once again FCPS does nothing. No interviews, no
> investigation, no looking into the complaint.
> Ms.Lipp is like the three monkeys, see nothing,
> speak nothing, hear nothing.
>
> Read her bull shit response to a parent and see
> makes $175,000 dollars.
>
> See needs to go out the door with Luther.
>
>
>

Wait! You sent an anonymous e-mail and expect the Principal to spank a coach for you? You are lucky you even got a response!

As for what she is proposing, she is recommending a thing that grown ups do. Instead of bringing this shit onto a Forum, why don't you actually speak with the coach in person? God forbid you should try THAT.

WashingTone Locian Wrote:

> Seriously, you don't think Luther has that one to
> throw out there when he is challenged?
>
> The coach keeps his job based on how many games
> his team wins. Not by how many parents of kids on
> the opposing teams bitch and whine. If he has to
> let his most talented players act like assholes in
> order to keep them on his team, that's what he is
> going to do.


Are you seriously asking me whether someone would LIE to keep their job?...LOL, well DUH!

Keep them on his team? whats the kid gonna do, quit and go pro?..lol he doesnt' "HAVE TO" let his players act like assholes, they act like that because he obviously allows it...DUH


Gotta hand it to Jane Lipp, she writes up a hellova email. Who in their right mind would engage in email debate with an anonymous sender? (FFXU regs notwithstanding...lol) That there Janie Lipp-ster has some political mad skillz, eh?

Look, SOCO parents, I hear the whole "retaliation" argument for staying anonymous...its stupid. If your kid plays now, and Luther benches him, you have him by the short hairs. If he doesnt play now, he ain't gonna, cuz Luther doesnt have him marked in the top 9. Not hard to calculate. Starters play, subs cheer. If you're gonna hang on every "pinch runner" oppty as a possible slight, then go watch the softball game at the other field.

Time to man up, SOCO parents.

3 hours til game time, GODDAMMIT!

______________________________________________
I have had to change the addresses to my retaliatory blogs over half a dozen times.

fairfaxdude Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> WashingTone Locian Wrote:
>
> > Seriously, you don't think Luther has that one
> to
> > throw out there when he is challenged?
> >
> > The coach keeps his job based on how many games
> > his team wins. Not by how many parents of kids
> on
> > the opposing teams bitch and whine. If he has
> to
> > let his most talented players act like assholes
> in
> > order to keep them on his team, that's what he
> is
> > going to do.
>
>
> Are you seriously asking me whether someone would
> LIE to keep their job?...LOL, well DUH!
>
> Keep them on his team? whats the kid gonna do,
> quit and go pro?..lol he doesnt' "HAVE TO" let his
> players act like assholes, they act like that
> because he obviously allows it...DUH
>
>
> Gotta hand it to Jane Lipp, she writes up a
> hellova email. Who in their right mind would
> engage in email debate with an anonymous sender?
> (FFXU regs notwithstanding...lol) That there
> Janie Lipp-ster has some political mad skillz, eh?
>
>
> Look, SOCO parents, I hear the whole "retaliation"
> argument for staying anonymous...its stupid. If
> your kid plays now, and Luther benches him, you
> have him by the short hairs. If he doesnt play
> now, he ain't gonna, cuz Luther doesnt have him
> marked in the top 9. Not hard to calculate.
> Starters play, subs cheer. If you're gonna hang
> on every "pinch runner" oppty as a possible
> slight, then go watch the softball game at the
> other field.
>
> Time to man up, SOCO parents.
>
> 3 hours til game time, GODDAMMIT!

I think if you had a kid in FCPS and you had to deal with the corrupt system and the staff of nazi brown shirts you would be a big cry baby.

You do not know the rules in FCPS sports? You have to pay in order to play, You have to kiss the coaches ass, Ask Luther how many parents bring him lunch, How many give him free meals at restaurant, and how many had to go to his clinics?

One more think you can ask Luther, he has been doing fund raising for the baseball team for the last six months, where is the money?

Mulch sale, clinics for baseball players in the school gym and now each players has to sell $150,00 dollars in baseball tickets.

Not one penny has been given to any players/parent.

Where is Ms. Lipp when you need her?

> Not one penny has been given to any
> players/parent.
>
> Where is Ms. Lipp when you need her?


Well you see, high school athletes do not paid. Talk about not knowing the rules. That is a clear FCPS violation.

I will say having two daughters go through the system, the required fundraising is absolute crap.

2 hours to game time Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
>
>
> Where is Ms. Lipp when you need her?


Teaching Your Kids instead of fucking around with spoiled athletes and their parents, maybe?

2 hours to game time Wrote:

> I think if you had a kid in FCPS and you had to
> deal with the corrupt system and the staff of nazi
> brown shirts you would be a big cry baby.
>
> You do not know the rules in FCPS sports? You have
> to pay in order to play, You have to kiss the
> coaches ass, Ask Luther how many parents bring him
> lunch, How many give him free meals at restaurant,
> and how many had to go to his clinics?
>
> One more think you can ask Luther, he has been
> doing fund raising for the baseball team for the
> last six months, where is the money?
>
> Mulch sale, clinics for baseball players in the
> school gym and now each players has to sell
> $150,00 dollars in baseball tickets.
>
> Not one penny has been given to any
> players/parent.
>
> Where is Ms. Lipp when you need her?

YOU, sir/madam are a retard. I have 2 kids in FCPS,both play sports--3 different varsity sports. At a very "sport-centric" school, no less. Never kissed a coach's ass, once. Yep, did a few clinics, SO MY KIDS WOULD GET BETTER, dim-bulb!

The rest of your post is just plain fucking stupid.

And to the other fundraiser-hater, just LOL. Don't do the fundraising then--just write a check and be done. Stop whining.

Off to Annandale; can't wait for some popcorn and some histrionics!

Now carry on.

______________________________________________
I have had to change the addresses to my retaliatory blogs over half a dozen times.

This is a very moral and sound person with the sense to see the bigger picture. I agree with you 1oo% Can you Coach? If more people like yourself were in the place of Coach Luther and Townsend and his good ol boys club, we'd have a ball team!!

That's $250 per player selling 50/50 raffle tickets. I would also like to know why parents who didn't go to the Orlando trip didn't have to pay for a hotel room (4 players per room at $119 per night for 7 nights) .....about $225 per player. parents who joined and particpated in Orlando with the boys paid the whole balance of over $900 for the hotel stay plus our own travel. I'd like to know where the Matress sales, Mulch sales, Spirit weatr sales, raffle sales, clinic sales $$$$ went myself?

Montgomery 100-Yard Penalty on Players' Parents
Fans of Md. Soccer Team Banned After a Few Berate the Referee


By Annie Gowen
Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, April 21, 2009

As the 13-year-old girls chased the soccer ball around the verdant field Sunday, one set of parents watched from the sidelines in comfy collapsible chairs, sipping coffee. The others were banished to a nearby hill, straining to see the action with binoculars.

The parents rooting for Bethesda's Legacy travel team at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds were being punished for behavior at the end of last season, when a referee was berated for a call. Saying their actions were "nothing less than egregious," the Washington Area Girls Soccer League took the unusual step of banning them from the sidelines for two games, and a referee made sure they stayed back.

The soccer league, home to many of the area's best soccer players with 600 teams and more than 15,000 participants, has a strict disciplinary system, in which players and coaches receive yellow or red cards for rough or unsportsmanlike conduct. Some have to explain themselves at disciplinary hearings. There are also sportsmanship liaisons on each team, who are supposed to keep fellow parents in check.

Aggressive or otherwise inappropriate behavior by individual parents at soccer games or other youth sporting events happens with regularity these days. But this case was unusual because the whole team's parents were punished.

Kathie Diapoulis, league president, said the parents had gone too far. The league's disciplinary board has had better luck barring individual parents from attending games in the past three years rather than fining them, because the parents would pay the money and continue the bad behavior.

"We have taken a strong stance," Diapoulis said. "It's important. This isn't the World Cup. . . . And for the parents to be shrieking on the sidelines and belittling people goes against everything we're trying to do. . . . It's not acceptable behavior."

At Sunday's game against the Montgomery Soccer Club's Xcel, a referee was assigned to make sure the Legacy parents did not come within 100 yards of the field. Managers were equipped with emergency cellphone numbers in case of another altercation.

Elisa Chetrit, 43, a Potomac resident and a Legacy parent, said that at the game last fall during which the unsportsmanlike conduct occurred, the parents were "all frustrated together" about what they perceived to be bad calls by the referees. "There are many reasons why [the incident happened], but the point is we've got to shut up and keep going. . . . You can't let those things get to you. You just have to sit on the sidelines and not say anything."

The trouble began when a parent from the Springfield Youth Club's Xplosion working as an assistant referee raised a flag in the air and called an offside violation on a Bethesda player, according to the minutes of the disciplinary hearing. After the game, a Bethesda parent approached the referee and accused him of making the wrong call, the report says. The parent "started to raise his voice," according to the report. More sniping occurred, and "the tone and behavior of the parents was aggressive." Then another Bethesda parent allegedly yelled at the referee's daughter, "Your father should be fired!"


The league's disciplinary committee ruled that the Bethesda parents had violated the league's code of conduct -- which asks parents to refrain from questioning referees' calls -- through "egregious" behavior that "has no place in youth sports." They ruled that the parents could not be on the sidelines for the first two games of this season.

"There was a game where our parents were a little bit vocal about the refereeing. . . . Things can get emotional, but you have to keep up the sportsmanlike spirit," said Legacy's manager, Mark Lauda, an Olney resident. "We're not a problem team at all. It was just one thing that happened."

As the cost and competitiveness of youth sports have increased over the years, so have incidents of parental misbehavior, experts say, despite efforts to institute codes of conduct and "Silent Sundays," when parents agree not to talk at all during games. According to a Sports Illustrated Kids poll, 74 percent of children have witnessed out-of-control parents at their games.

Amid the thump of soccer balls and shouts of encouragement Sunday, the Xcel parents kept an eye on the sanctioned parents, even saying later that they thought a reporter snapping photos on their sideline might have been a Bethesda parent violating the 100-yard setback.

"It's embarrassing," one of the parents said. "This is seventh-grade soccer."

Across the way, Potomac lawyer Philip Page watched his daughter Jacqueline play through binoculars, which was "very maddening." Especially because he wasn't even at the game where the unsportsmanlike conduct occurred.

"We accepted our punishment, and we're abiding by it," Page said. "One of the functions of sports is to teach sportsmanship. When we as parents violate that, the girls need to see there are consequences to those actions."

The Legacy team lost, 2-0. Their parents filed glumly off the hill, their timeout completed. They put their sweaty daughters in SUVs and minivans and quickly left the parking lot.

Many of the vehicles had stickers with the league's motto: "Lasting Friendships Through Soccer."


LESSON HERE: There are consequences for bad actions. The coach at SOCO should be disciplined as should the player.

why are you parents so whiney? nice example you set for your kids, you're (or at least should be) the first role model they have. you got a problem with someone, go talk to them about it. anonymous emails to principals? how cowardly. is this behavior limited to just baseball parents or all soco parents?

a parent Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> That's $250 per player selling 50/50 raffle
> tickets. I would also like to know why parents who
> didn't go to the Orlando trip didn't have to pay
> for a hotel room (4 players per room at $119 per
> night for 7 nights) .....about $225 per player.
> parents who joined and particpated in Orlando with
> the boys paid the whole balance of over $900 for
> the hotel stay plus our own travel. I'd like to
> know where the Matress sales, Mulch sales, Spirit
> weatr sales, raffle sales, clinic sales $$$$ went
> myself?

Where is the money? Does Luther have it? What has he spent it on? Did he use it for his pay and his expenses? Did he use it for his coaches expenses and their pay? These coaches went to Orlando. Who paid their way?

We need complete ACCOUNTABILITY for every penny raised and spent.

Luther where is your treasury report? You need to give a copy of this report to every player,parent and school official. If you do not do this you are corrupt.

Because of "retaliation" my kid doesn't know I'm on this so to them...I'm not whining. Thank goodness parents have an outlet that parents, school officials, coaches can see. It's not pleasant to be part of a program that is unjust , unfair and corrupt. We LOVE our kids and do our best to teach them to make good decisions, work hard to earn the reward and play fair. Not every team wins, not every player is great. This county is the opposite. It runs on $$!
AS far as Coach Luther. I'm sure he is a great guy, great coach and friend to the players. What he is not, is a leader.He has a great opportuntiy to teach our kids some life long lessons about losing, sportsmanship, trying hard, never giving up, team players and so forth. None of that is going on. The kids are out of control in an un-controlled inviornment handed to them by the leadership....COACH. You are as good as you leader....that explains it.

I guess that is where the hard work fundraising $$ went. I'm sure we paid there way in full. They probably wouldn't go if we didn't. Either would the team but so what...it was Spring Break. I can see a weekend but not the whole week. What about our families? What about the players that hardly played...what a cost to them!!

dahshiznat Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Unfortunately, high school baseball, among most
> other sports I'm sure, is all about politics. The
> coaches don't play players based on their skills
> and attitudes alone, but based on other things
> such as name, reputation and parents contributions
> such as coaching, boosters and concession stand
> volunteering. Brown nosing?
>
> Just wait until the SOCO JV coach starts coaching
> varsity. I played under him and his current
> assistant coach on the JV squad for 5 years and he
> DOES NOT put up with any bullshit.

If the above is true, it means that the varsity coach Mark Luther takes shit from his players and does nothing about it.

He then has no balls and should not coach at all.

A ton of mexicans love to eat at the McDonald's off 236

The parents complaining on here about this Luther dude are a bunch of fucking pussies! If you are that upset about it, organize a meeting with the coach and/or principal. If you think coming on here and bitching anonymously is getting anyone's serious attention, you are wrong. It did nothing to give Litsa a stiffer sentence and it did nothing to stop the South Lakes redistricting.

You want to get the coach's/principal's attention? I suggest all of you on here agree to organize. Set up a meeting time with these folks and SHOW UP to air your complaints. THAT will get their attention.

This bullshit won't.

Pussy Parents Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> The parents complaining on here about this Luther
> dude are a bunch of fucking pussies! If you are
> that upset about it, organize a meeting with the
> coach and/or principal. If you think coming on
> here and bitching anonymously is getting anyone's
> serious attention, you are wrong. It did nothing
> to give Litsa a stiffer sentence and it did
> nothing to stop the South Lakes redistricting.
>
> You want to get the coach's/principal's attention?
> I suggest all of you on here agree to organize.
> Set up a meeting time with these folks and SHOW UP
> to air your complaints. THAT will get their
> attention.
>
> This bullshit won't.

You sound like a DICK head parent who is full of shit.

The students supporting on here about this Luther dude are a bunch of fucking pussies! If you are that supportive of it, organize a meeting with the coach and/or principal. If you think coming on here and bitching anonymously is getting anyone's serious attention, you are phukking wrong dipshits. It did prevent the purchase of GHII and it did to give and it result in another FG win also.

You want to get the coach's/principal's attention? I suggest all of you on here agree to organize. Set up a meeting time with these folks and SHOW UP to air your complaints. THAT will get their attention.

This bullshit won't complaining oof yoou punks woon't cut it

Pussy Students Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> The students supporting on here about this Luther
> dude are a bunch of fucking pussies! If you are
> that supportive of it, organize a meeting with the
> coach and/or principal. If you think coming on
> here and bitching anonymously is getting anyone's
> serious attention, you are phukking wrong
> dipshits. It did prevent the purchase of GHII and
> it did to give and it result in another FG win
> also.
>
> You want to get the coach's/principal's attention?
> I suggest all of you on here agree to organize.
> Set up a meeting time with these folks and SHOW UP
> to air your complaints. THAT will get their
> attention.
>
> This bullshit won't complaining oof yoou punks
> woon't cut it

Please be original Dick head. You are just like Luther 24/7 ass hole.

SCSS Parent Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> dahshiznat Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > Unfortunately, high school baseball, among most
> > other sports I'm sure, is all about politics.
> The
> > coaches don't play players based on their
> skills
> > and attitudes alone, but based on other things
> > such as name, reputation and parents
> contributions
> > such as coaching, boosters and concession stand
> > volunteering. Brown nosing?
> >
> > Just wait until the SOCO JV coach starts
> coaching
> > varsity. I played under him and his current
> > assistant coach on the JV squad for 5 years and
> he
> > DOES NOT put up with any bullshit.
>
> Are you talking about Steve Lyons who has been
> kissing Luther ass for the last five years? Is he
> not the guy who collects the money for Luthers
> camps? Is he not the guy who coaches 13u and 14u
> teams for Luther?
>
> Sounds like one more poor choice for a coach.

First off, get your facts straight. Mark Luther does not put on camps. Luther organized a clinic for little leaguers, that was ran by south county baseball players, during the off season this year, as a fundraiser. All the money raised by the various fundraisers, such as mulch and raffle tickets, goes directly back into the South County baseball program. It helps to pay for new equipment, spring break trips, and all the various expenses associated with maintaining a baseball field.

Secondly, I have been fortunate enough to know Steve Lyons for the past six years and he does not and will not ever kiss anybodies ass. He never collected money for any of the "camps" Luther supposedly has. Coach Lyons has organized hitting clinics in the past for his two travel teams (the Vipers franchise). He did this because he wanted the best possible training for his players. Coach Luther had absolutely nothing to do with this hitting clinic. Coach Lyons has been coaching for almost 20 years, and has earned respect throughout our community by displaying a great amount of passion, enthusiasm, and dedication to his players. South County's JV baseball team has not had any of the sportsmanship issues the varsity team is struggling with. Coach Lyons and Coach Tiamson emphasize sportsmanship and respect. They actually have consequences for poor sportsmanship or a lack of respect.

The post about Steve Lyons kissing luthers behind for the past 5 years is also wrong because the two haven't even know each other for five years.

Doesn't the county contribute to the upkeep of the fields or perhaps tha Va. tax payer for the schools? I think the concern is that parents spend $$ on these organized Spring Break trips and get no financial relief. Most in this area are able to support the decisions made by the coaches but it seems unfair to me that we pay for there hotel, travel and whatever else. Their families came to join them and if the players have to share rooms that didn't have a parent chaperone, shouldn't the coaches as well? 3 rooms at $119 a night for 3 coaches for 7 nights...do the math. That is where our finances went. I don't even mind paying for a portion, just s long as it is fair to all. I feel for the less fortunate or for those struggling financially. No one wants to admit this is difficult for them but I would bet most are concerned or had to use a good portion of their tax return to make this a reality for their kid.

South County Stallions Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> SCSS Parent Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > dahshiznat Wrote:
> >
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> > -----
> > > Unfortunately, high school baseball, among
> most
> > > other sports I'm sure, is all about politics.
> > The
> > > coaches don't play players based on their
> > skills
> > > and attitudes alone, but based on other
> things
> > > such as name, reputation and parents
> > contributions
> > > such as coaching, boosters and concession
> stand
> > > volunteering. Brown nosing?
> > >
> > > Just wait until the SOCO JV coach starts
> > coaching
> > > varsity. I played under him and his current
> > > assistant coach on the JV squad for 5 years
> and
> > he
> > > DOES NOT put up with any bullshit.
> >
> > Are you talking about Steve Lyons who has been
> > kissing Luther ass for the last five years? Is
> he
> > not the guy who collects the money for Luthers
> > camps? Is he not the guy who coaches 13u and
> 14u
> > teams for Luther?
> >
> > Sounds like one more poor choice for a coach.
>
> First off, get your facts straight. Mark Luther
> does not put on camps. Luther organized a clinic
> for little leaguers, that was ran by south county
> baseball players, during the off season this year,
> as a fundraiser. All the money raised by the
> various fundraisers, such as mulch and raffle
> tickets, goes directly back into the South County
> baseball program. It helps to pay for new
> equipment, spring break trips, and all the various
> expenses associated with maintaining a baseball
> field.
>
> Secondly, I have been fortunate enough to know
> Steve Lyons for the past six years and he does not
> and will not ever kiss anybodies ass. He never
> collected money for any of the "camps" Luther
> supposedly has. Coach Lyons has organized hitting
> clinics in the past for his two travel teams (the
> Vipers franchise). He did this because he wanted
> the best possible training for his players. Coach
> Luther had absolutely nothing to do with this
> hitting clinic. Coach Lyons has been coaching for
> almost 20 years, and has earned respect throughout
> our community by displaying a great amount of
> passion, enthusiasm, and dedication to his
> players. South County's JV baseball team has not
> had any of the sportsmanship issues the varsity
> team is struggling with. Coach Lyons and Coach
> Tiamson emphasize sportsmanship and respect. They
> actually have consequences for poor sportsmanship
> or a lack of respect.
>
> The post about Steve Lyons kissing luthers behind
> for the past 5 years is also wrong because the two
> haven't even know each other for five years.

I played baseball for 12 years, 5 years under Steve, and 2 or 3 under Steve and Bobby, and they are the ONLY coaches who held sportsmanship and similar values above 'politics.' I can't count the number of times I've seen a teammate benched because of a bad attitude during those years. Steve had a strict regimen of playing every player every game by sitting everybody 2 innings. Skill didn't matter and even the 'best' players sat their 2 innings. Another point, is that I still played on his team even though I was the only non South County student on the roster. He coaches for the love of the game and it really shows if you know him.

Luther where is the money and where is the report?

www.Mark.Luther@fcps.edu


Where is the money? Does Luther have it? What has he spent it on? Did he use it for his pay and his expenses? Did he use it for his coaches expenses and their pay? These coaches went to Orlando. Who paid their way?

We need complete ACCOUNTABILITY for every penny raised and spent.

Luther where is your treasury report? You need to give a copy of this report to every player,parent and school official. If you do not do this you are corrupt.

tired of the language Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Doesn't the county contribute to the upkeep of the
> fields or perhaps tha Va. tax payer for the
> schools? I think the concern is that parents
> spend $$ on these organized Spring Break trips
> and get no financial relief. Most in this area are
> able to support the decisions made by the coaches
> but it seems unfair to me that we pay for there
> hotel, travel and whatever else. Their families
> came to join them and if the players have to share
> rooms that didn't have a parent chaperone,
> shouldn't the coaches as well? 3 rooms at $119 a
> night for 3 coaches for 7 nights...do the math.
> That is where our finances went. I don't even mind
> paying for a portion, just s long as it is fair to
> all. I feel for the less fortunate or for those
> struggling financially. No one wants to admit this
> is difficult for them but I would bet most are
> concerned or had to use a good portion of their
> tax return to make this a reality for their kid.

The truth, Luther get paid from FCPS for any work that he does on the baseball field. FCPS pays for most of the upkeep of the field. In addition, the FCPA has a program that does maintenance work on all FCPS fields which allows NVTBL teams to play on HS fields.

What about the booster club at SOCO and the fund raising they do. They paid for the new grass and other equipment needs for the baseball team.

You make wild assertions anonymously yet demand accountability. Why are you not accountable for these posts? You go after kids by name but you hide behind your multiple troll names. Shame on you.

parcsif Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> You make wild assertions anonymously yet demand
> accountability. Why are you not accountable for
> these posts? You go after kids by name but you
> hide behind your multiple troll names. Shame on
> you.


Agreed.

Baseball Fan Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Sitting in the stands during a WestSpringfield and
> South County HS varsity game the following
> happened:
>
> The player for South County struck out, then went
> ballistic by throwing his equipment and yelling at
> the top of his lungs Goddamnit, Goddamnit,
> Goddamnit.
>
> The umpire told the coach that this player was out
> of control.
>
> What was not done: The varsity coach for South
> County did nothing. The player was not removed
> from the game and played the field the next
> inning.
>
> This was a total disgrace for high school sports
> and should not happen in front of players, adults
> and their children.

No names just disgrace.

I'm sure the coach has had a nice little sit down with this kid. The discussion probably went like this "I'm taking some heat, don't pull that shit again or I'll be in trouble" instead of "another display like that, you're benched". These coaches come a dime a dozen. It's all about them, not the kids or what is good for the team.

oaktonmom Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I'm sure the coach has had a nice little sit down
> with this kid. The discussion probably went like
> this "I'm taking some heat, don't pull that shit
> again or I'll be in trouble" instead of "another
> display like that, you're benched". These coaches
> come a dime a dozen. It's all about them, not the
> kids or what is good for the team.

I agree with you.

Yes, I'm sure oaktonmom and Lee Dad would make great coaches who could school EVERYONE on team leadership. Let us know what teams you plan to coach and we'll show up at every game to see how perfectly you do. After all, it's an easy job... how hard could it be?



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/22/2009 07:33AM by pgens.

pgens Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Yes, I'm sure oaktonmom and Lee Dad would make
> great coaches who could school EVERYONE on team
> leadership. Let us know what teams you plan to
> coach and we'll show up at every game to see how
> perfectly you do. After all, it's an easy job...
> how hard could it be?

It seems that it is and has been much to hard for Mark Luther over the years.

pgens Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Yes, I'm sure oaktonmom and Lee Dad would make
> great coaches who could school EVERYONE on team
> leadership. Let us know what teams you plan to
> coach and we'll show up at every game to see how
> perfectly you do. After all, it's an easy job...
> how hard could it be?


Actually, teaching sportsmanship and on field decorum IS pretty easy--its developing players and game coaching the myriad baseball situations that come up thats difficult, so that your team wins "most" of the time.

Setting behavioral expecations, following through on rewards/punishments, etc---REALLY not hard at all.

Seems like this Luther dude has forgetten the easy part, in his relentless quest to acheive the latter.

______________________________________________
I have had to change the addresses to my retaliatory blogs over half a dozen times.