[Logophile]

The simple truth is that parents get involved with youth activities to benefit their child. If their involvement helps other kids, the competition, well that cant be helped, and can be spun to benefit the image of the involved parent.

Fair enough. But how has Mr. Hinkle's behavior in this case helped his son?

You're correct the sponsor made the terms of his sponsorship perfectly clear, and was in his rights to stick to the deal. The coach never should of accepted the terms offered.

Does the article say that Mr. Hinkle was the team's "sponsor"? I must have missed that. Hinkle seems to believe he owns not just the team but the entire league, but the article suggests otherwise:

The Fairfax County Youth Football League is one of the area's largest, fielding 314 teams in various weight and age categories. Hinkle is commissioner of the South County Youth Association, one of 23 clubs that make up the league.

The article also points out that the other players' families spent time and money so their sons could play on the team:

The investment by parents in time and money is substantial. Parents pay a fee of as much as $160, which goes toward equipment and other costs. They also have to ferry their boys to practice three times a week.

Perhaps, as you say, that Hinkle was within his rights to fire the coaches. But he had no good reason to do so. He is a jerk who is setting a lousy example for his son.

[Mark was here]

Perhaps, as you say, that Hinkle was within his rights to fire the coaches. But he had no good reason to do so. He is a jerk who is setting a lousy example for his son.

Yep, and his son will end up the same way.