Dear Fans - From A Player's Perspective

By Mark Horbinski

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By Dennis R.J. Geppert, AP

Dear Fans,

I'd like to thank you for taking the time to come to my game last night. It sure was nice to see such a big crowd. I just wish you could have been a little more positive towards me and my teammates. I know you were disappointed that we didn't win. We were too, but we really did try our best.

It's true that we made a bunch of mistakes, but we're still learning and we're getting better. I know sometimes it might not seem that way to you, but we really are improving. Remember, we're only teenagers. Quite a few of us aren't even old enough to drive a car and most of us don't even shave yet. Please be patient with us because in a few years, if we all stick with it, we have a chance to be pretty good!

The sad part is that we probably won't all stick with it. I've already heard some of the kids talking about quitting this season or not coming out next year. Most of them say it's too much pressure. One kid said he heard people yelling from the stands that he shouldn't be allowed on the court because he isn't good enough. Another kid was told the only reason he was playing is because of his last name - even though I know for a fact that he worked harder in the off-season than anyone else on the team. Heck, I don't think anyone should be made to feel bad because he went out for a high school team, tried his best, and wasn't as good as someone else.

This is where you come in. I'm asking you for your help as someone I look up to; someone I respect. Please continue to come to my games, but be positive. Cheer for me, but not at the expense of my teammates. If you hear someone tearing me, my teammates, or my team down, step in and ask them to stop - even if it is uncomfortable for you. If you are uncomfortable with what you are hearing, just think of how it makes my teammates and I feel.

Remember, you had your chance to play. Now it's our turn. Thank you for reading my letter.

Respectfully,

A kid playing a game

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Mark says:
11/12/2015 at 10:45:29 AM

Great letter. Thank you for posting something like this. You all as an organization have an amazing platform to influence people. I was encouraged to read this today, because we emphasize positivism from our parents in our basketball leagues and it creates a noticeable difference in the players performance. Keep up the good work.

christine says:
11/12/2015 at 9:05:11 AM

Well said.

TC Conn says:
11/12/2015 at 9:03:00 AM

Great article Mark,
Kids will be kids, but when adults get involved in the "game" of disrespect and humiliation, then the kids will keep following suit.
We need to respect these players that are willing to get out there in front of their friends, classmates and family members and represent their schools. It is not an easy thing to do and hearing non-positive remarks coming from the stands is not easy to take.
Please when you come to the game...support your team in a positive manner, cheer them on when they are winning and also remember they need your support when they are on the losing end of the score.
We need to make this a win-win situation all the way around whether they win or lose, for just getting on the court or field...they are winners.
Fans need to make these times enjoyable and exciting and let them know that you, 'THE FANS", support them positively.

April says:
10/21/2015 at 9:33:35 PM

This really hits home in my family. My daughter was so excited to join basketball in 7th grade. It was her first time ever playing, so she was far from the best. Even though her team won all their games she chose to never join again. The reason... the comments the adults watching would say. I heard a woman one night yell to pull her from the gam. Sure she wasn't the greatest but she was trying her hardest. No matter what I've said to my daughter to try to get her to get past the adult comments have helped. She refuses to join again and is worried about joining any other sport now. It's bad enough youth athletes hear negative comments from their peers, it's even worse that they have to hear it from adult fans as well. Thank you for bringing this topic attention.

1 person liked this. 1 reply

Mark Horbinski says:
10/21/2015 at 9:57:40 PM

April -

I am saddened that your daughter had this negative experience. It is both unwarranted and unnecessary. I have been blessed to have coached student-athletes for the past 30 years ranging in age from 6-18 years old; both boys and girls. I have coached baseball, basketball, football, track & field, and cross country. While I thoroughly enjoyed coaching all of them, cross country and track & field are my favorite. They are sports that allow the flexibility to include all the student-athletes and to build relationships with each student-athlete, thus allowing the chance to celebrate individual progress, growth, and success. An added bonus is that the positive sportsmanship from both fans and competitors is unlike that of the more aggressive, intense team sports. If your daughter likes to run or jump or throw, track & field may be a wonderful option for her. Best of luck through this challenging time. If there is ever anyway I can help, please feel free to contact me at mhtechmesh@gmail.com

Praying for the Positive,
Mark Horbinski

Justin says:
10/21/2015 at 11:25:33 AM

Thank you for this. Parents need to realize that everyone is out there for a reason. For the love of the sport.

Don't make them hate the game because of your attitude.

1 person liked this. 1 reply

Mark Horbinski says:
10/21/2015 at 7:27:59 PM

Justin -
You're welcome and thank you for your input. This topic has weighed heavy on my heart for some time. No telling how many student-athletes have soured on participation in sports due to hurtful comments spoken in the heat of competition. I believe we have a moral obligation to our youth to turn this trend around. Have a great day!
Mark

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