Sad fact is, that the coach usually plays the best players, regardless of fairness.
I have experienced this with my children, and see it happen every day with others. From pee-wee to the pros, coaches play the best. Late to practice or no hustle in rec ball, all the way to convicted felons in the pros, the players with the skill to perform are the ones on the field or court. If a parent complains about their child's time, you can usually bet they are not the best one on the team. Just not human nature to withhold the players with the most skill in favor of fairness. I know favoritism is an issue also, but be one of the best on the team and you will play, a lot. One of life's lessons that you learn early on and never forget.