I WOULD like to make some comments on the “national team selection” and note that most of our organized sporting bodies in the CNMI are all run by volunteers, putting in many, many hours for the benefit of the community. Most do it for the love of the sport, some for their kids.
I am writing this letter in reference to the recent selection of team members to the Little League All Star teams. I think everyone should realize that just because an athlete leads the league in batting, shooting, or has the best times in an event, does not mean he should be on the national team, although it helps his chances.
I personally do not have an opinion on the choices, but would like to say that there are many other factors that lead to the decisions, such as training habits, behavior, sportsmanship, leadership, attitude and attendance of training sessions. The All Star (National) Team will be goodwill ambassadors for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands abroad, and all their actions will reflect on the commonwealth.
An example of this is the recent release of Ireland’s best soccer player from the Irish National Team. He is the best, but his behavior and attitude led to his release from the team. Do we want that to happen with one of our athletes overseas?
I think, in most cases, the organization that makes the decision is right, as long as the agreed upon and appropriate selection guidelines are followed. If it is felt that it was not fair, then the issue should be addressed to the body, and not the media. Why should the entire population know about an individual’s problem? The respective coaches and teams should work out those problems.
I would put blame on the coach for not attending important meetings where such selections are made, or, an assistant, to take the initiative to make certain his athletes are treated fairly. If the majority feel one way, there must be something about the situation.
Next time, let’s consider what the organizations are doing and address the problems to the association first.BILL SAKOVICH
As Mahetog, Saipan
