Also serving the communities of De Luz, Rainbow, Camp Pendleton, Pala and Pauma

In support of lacrosse coaches

The article “Parents ask FUHSD board to remove coach” in the October 11 [Village News] was disturbing. My son has been on the lacrosse team for two years and I’m happy with the coaches and the program. My husband and I attended all the varsity games last year and I was impressed how the team improved. It went from one that struggled in passing and playing to a team that found a rhythm. There was bonding that reflected a positive environment. I never saw the coach act in an unprofessional manner. My son would come home some evenings tired and sore but not anymore than when he played football. The awards banquet showed this bond between players

and coaches. There was a requested fee for the year to help pay for jerseys, balls, equipment, et cetera. We were told if we couldn’t afford it, the coaches would try to help get those expenses covered through scholarships. Some of the schools in the county have much

higher fees. I never saw a petition against the coach, so not all lacrosse parents were allowed in on this “development.” The article failed to mention Mr. DeGroff ’s conduct and poor sportsmanship. I was at the tournament game at Santana High School listening to Mr. DeGroff, in the stands, criticizing the coaches, the players and the referees. My husband and I were mortified with his conduct and at one point, when his yelling to the referee became too much and the referee stopped the game. Mr. DeGroff did quiet down, but he didn’t acknowledge himself to the referee. It was embarrassing to our team, school, coaches and parents. I know coach Schoffstall has benched players for poor grades and improper attitudes. I have trained competitors in Taekwondo for 14 years and believe sportsmanship and proper attitude are crucial. Not only is the conduct of the competitor important but that of the parent as well.

I am writing this letter as a lacrosse parent who supports the current

coaching staff and who has helped promote academic achievement,

sportsmanship and good character development.

Arlene Eyerman

 

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