Message From Duane » Portland Youth Baseball - Because It's More Than A Game

Being a positive role model and providing the best for our children requires hard work, dedication, commitment and sacrifice. At times, it also demands that we as individuals exercise discipline and self-control. With competitive play comes the natural expression of thought & emotion, as it should be. However, as mature & responsible adults, we all know there is a line between natural healthy expression & un-sportsman like conduct. To this end, the league has assembled a short list of expressions deemed acceptable & desirable.

1. Do shout & provide words of encouragement & praise to all our players.

2. Do thank the umpires. They are all young men of our community who are helping the league do a difficult job, most adults will not do. They are doing their absolute best, while serving as positive role models. Please remember this in the heat of the moment.

3. Do thank the coaches for their time and effort. Let them know how much you appreciate their unselfish dedication to trying to be a positive influence in your children’s lives.

If it’s healthy, positive, respectful, courteous, kind, cheerful, thoughtful or inspiring, it’s acceptable. Throughout this season, let us always be positive role models to our children and to each other. We expect the best from our children; they should expect and receive nothing less than the best from us.

As we begin the 2009 PYBL season, we look forward to seeing you at the ball field & look forward to the “Best Season Ever”