‘It’s about the kids,’ says coach who just cussed out the kids

HARTSELLE, AL – Moments after unleashing a profanity-laced tirade on his 8U baseball team, Coach Randy Baxter of the Hartselle Hustlers calmly reminded the parents, “The reason I coach is to help these boys develop into men and teach them a love for the game.  It’s not about winning or getting the ring, it’s about life lessons.  It’s really all about the kids.” 

“Yeah, that sounds so good, but he dropped three F-bombs when Graham missed a grounder through his legs,” said Mom Allison, clutching her iced coffee. Dad Steve agreed: “My kid’s learning more sailor lingo than how to catch a pop fly.”

“I love that he’s tough on them,” said assistant coach Brett, “But I’m not sure if my 2nd grader needs to hear that kind of talk.”  Baxter argued, “The cussing? It’s passion! These kids need to know losing ain’t cute.”

Parents are split. Some applaud Baxter’s fire; others want a G-rated coach. “I mean, they’re going to hear cussing in high school, so they might as well get used to it,” contended Coach Randy’s wife, Brenda.  But mom Lisa won’t have it: “He says it’s for the kids, but my son’s saying cuss words now when he plays whiffle ball with the neighbors!”

Witnesses say that before he released the kids after the game, Baxter dressed them down with an attack of insults for losing, then closed with a prayer.