AYBA critic way off base

I am writing in response to the letter written by Terry Campbell concerning the Agoura Youth Basketball Association. I will leave it to others to respond to the specifics of the case referred to in this letter. I would like to comment on the tone of the letter and the cheap shots taken at the volunteer board of directors and Howie Lauterbach in particular.

After coaching in various local youth sports leagues, I volunteered last year to serve on the AYBA board. I had no idea how much time and effort went into running the league and I was immediately impressed at the level of commitment from these fine people, most of whom have served for many years. We spent an amazing amount of time at each board meeting, not to mention e-mail communications, discussing how to best include everyone, how to be fair and how to make our league a positive experience for everyone involved.

So when I read Campbell's rant that included claims that "the league has no clue" and "has displayed outrageously poor judgment," and goes on to question the integrity of the board president, I was outraged. What a cowardly way to approach the situation.

Here's a suggestion. Try coming to a board meeting. The new year starts May 1 and, due in no small part to fatigue in dealing with the Campbells of the world, there are several openings on the board.

Volunteer, comment politely, or stay home. And a "thank you" to Howie Lauterbach for all his hard work and dedication. Curt Neff Oak Park