It is a rare occurrence that I can convey my appreciation regarding
a coach and his staff during District play, usually I am perplexed
by the actions and questionable example that some coaches set for
their players. However, in this case it is my utmost appreciation
and respect that I pass on to you regarding Bill Bingaman,
during an elimination game at the 12-year-old level this past week.
Bill had the opportunity to cash in on a cheap victory and keep on
playing. I believe he was losing by the score of 6-1 when we all realized
that the other team did not get a player up to bat to qualify for
mandatory play. I asked Bill if he wanted to protest that fact before
the umpires left the field, he had a team meeting and a coach meeting,
spoke to the umpires, and still would not protest even though this
loss to his team would put them out of the tournament. The umpires
decided to take the decision out of his hands and left the field of
play, thereby nullifying any chance for a protest. Which is what Bill
wanted them to do as it turned out.
Afterwards I spoke to Bill about his decision, and he felt his team
lost between the lines and it wouldn’t be fair to the other team
to take their victory away on a clerical error.
Everyone there was very proud that Bill
took the high road and made the proper choice. He should be commended
for his actions and fair play. The lesson he taught both teams should
go a long way in bringing respectability back to coaching.
At next years Coaches meeting I will make examples of Bill’s
and other’s courage to do the right thing even though it’s
a “rule” he could have used to his advantage for a win
at all cost. Bill is a real Gentleman a terrific coach and an
asset to your program.
Jim McDonald
District Administrator
Pennsylvania District 30
Little League Baseball Softball Inc.
120 Overhill Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19116
