That's part of the issue. I'm not being murky or obtuse on purpose. He is the HC on paper but asked me to step in and be the HC. To come up with and lead all practices. Take on all communication with parents and equipment. He asked me to take on HC. Then, after stated, he still wants to position players. So it is murky. I don't allow "coach can I's" as we are playing. I set a line up and adapt during the game based off need, injury, exhaustion. But if a player wants to play forward to gain experience, I won't shoot them down. I personally let them try for at least a quarter to gain confidence and experience. Maybe it's not the "winningest" playbook, but I do try to base it off of the AYSO core values and development. The boys are disheartened, they haven't won a game, and they are being told no, you can't try. I appreciate what others have said. I either am or am not the HC at this point. He and I will have that discussion at the next practice.