HS Parent/Coach Communication

PARENT/COACH RELATIONSHIP

Both parenting and coaching are extremely difficult vocations. By establishing an understanding of each position, we are better able to accept the actions of the other and provide greater benefit to your son. As parents, when your daughters and sons become involved on our program, you have a right to understand what expectations are placed on your child. This begins with clear communication from the coach of your sport.

COMMUNICATION YOU SHOULD EXPECT FROM YOUR CHILD’S COACH

• Philosophy of the coach.
• Expectations the coach has for the team.
• Locations and times of all practices and contests.
• Explanation on any major changes in role.
• Team requirements, i.e. fees, special equipment, off-season conditioning.
• Discipline that results in the denial of participation.

COMMUNICATION COACHES EXPECT FROM ATHLETES AND PARENTS

• Concerns should always be expressed directly to the coach, not to other parents or players.
• Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance.
• Specific concern in regard to a coach’s philosophy and/or expectations.

*As your child becomes involved in the programs in high school, he/she will experience some of the most important moments of his life. It is important to understand that there also may be times when things do not go the way you or your child wishes. It is very difficult to accept your child not playing as much as you hope. Coaches make judgement decisions based on what they believe to be best for all students involved and the team. You will not always agree with their decisions. At these times, discussion with the coach is encouraged and is the first step towards a resolution.

APPROPRIATE CONCERNS TO DISCUSS WITH COACHES

• The treatment of your child, mentally and physically.
• Ways to help your child improve.
• Concerns about your child’s behavior.

ISSUES NOT APPROPRIATE TO DISCUSS WITH COACHES

• Playing time.
• Team strategy.
• Play calling.
• Other student athletes.

There are situations other than these listed above that may require a conference between coach and parent, but only after your son and the coach have met. These are to be encouraged. It is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the other’s position. When these conferences are necessary, the following procedure should be followed to help promote a resolution to the concern.

PROCEDURE FOR CONFERENCE WITH COACHES

• Make sure your child has tried to resolve the problem first.
• Call the coach to set up an appointment.
• Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a practice or contest. These can be emotional times for both coach and parent. Meetings of this nature do not promote resolution, only conflict.
• If the coach does not respond in a reasonable amount of time, call the Athletic Director, He/She will set up the meeting for you.