senior varsity player not playing

Question
My son has been playing for his high school team since he was a freshman.  He was brought to the varsity level during his sophomore year.  His main position is pitcher.  At the JV level he had one of the top batting averages.  When brought to the varsity level the coach decided that he should no longer bat. Alright I can deal with that, didn't agree.   This is his senior year and he started the year as the #1 pitcher.  He got mono about 3 weeks into the season and had to take 2 weeks off (the doc wanted him to take 4 weeks). Since then the coach has not started him.  My son has the lowest ERA and has not had a bad outing.  Other pitchers have got knocked around.  The coach has yelled at my son in front of the others for minor things and not said anything to others for numerous errors.  Senior night is coming up and the coach is having a junior start over my son - who is a senior.  Who does one speak to about this obvious unfair attitude to my son?

Answer
hi karen
thanks for the question.
i would ask your son to talk with the coach about the status of his position. in the discussion, your son needs to ask where the coach sees him and his role.
if the season is too far gone for that, then this is a wonderful opportunity for your son to understand that sometimes things don't go the way we want. he has the opportunity to be there for the other kids on the team, support them, work hard so he can prepare for summer ball. many people will feel sorry for themselves and find excuses for not being a team guy. show me a kid who handles this situation in the proper way, and this kid is a true champion. i know, it is not what he wants, but it is the only thing that he can do that allows him (your son) to benefit from the situation.

you are a mom who hurts when her son hurts. i understand that. i have 4 kids and have been there as well. but, you can not control the situation. the only thing you can do is show your son what options he has and how to deal with the situation. i really hope this helps!

steve