New Haven, Conn.’s, Jericho Scott is a pitcher that has a 40 mph fastball. You’re probably wondering what’s noteworthy about that.

He’s nine.

Recently, officials from New Haven’s youth league told the pitcher’s coach Scott wouldn’t be allowed to pitch anymore because he’s “too good.”

If I’m remembering correctly, I don’t believe I was ever punished for excelling at something as a child.

What really caught my eye was the fact that when his coach sent him out to the mound, the opposing team packed up and hit the road.

What kind of message does that send to the kids on the other team?

“Hey guys, listen ... I just thought you should know we’re not playing today because none of you are nearly as good as that kid on the mound, and you don’t have a snowball’s chance in summer of hitting him.”

That’s good reinforcement for kids to have.

The way I see it, if the kid’s got a gift, then why punish him for utilizing it?

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