[csa]

This definitely happens, but that’s also a bad coach.

Good coaches will develop kids across the entire range of skill levels, and will consistently give them tasks that they can succeed in (at least in practice). In the US, most little league teams have “must-play” requirements, so both coaches have to play their weakest players optimally.

[yowlingcat]

I think both are true. The must-play requirements are present, but they don't stop certain things from happening -- things like the coach's kid from getting the most playtime, attention and opportunities in game. I saw this happen firsthand.

[csa]

Absolutely.

Then again, that person is probably a bad coach.

For anyone out there looking to give back to their community, learning how to be a good youth sports coach is probably high on the list of value add. It’s not easy, but you can have a positive impact on people that will last a lifetime.