Parent / Coach Communication
Parent / Coach Relationship
Parenting and coaching are extremely difficult. By establishing an
understanding of each position, we will be able to serve and provide a
greater benefit to our student athletes. As parents, when your student
becomes involved in our program, you have a right to understand what
expectations are placed on your athlete. This begins with clear
communication from the coach of your child’s program.
Communication You Should Expect From Your Student’s Coach:
1: Philosophy of the coach
2: Expectations the coach has for your child
3: Locations and times of all practices and contests
4: Team requirements, i.e., fee’s, special equipment, off-season
conditioning
5: Procedure should your child be injured during participation
6: Discipline that results in the denial of your child’s participation
7: Expectations of parental role in athletic program
Communication Coaches Expect From Parents:
1: Concerns expressed directly to the coach
2: Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance
3: Specific concern in regard to a coach’s philosophy and / or
expectations
High school athletics can be one of the most rewarding moments of their
lives. It is important to understand that there also may be times when
things do not go the way your child wishes. At these times discussion with
a coach is encouraged.
Appropriate Concerns to Discuss With Coaches:
1: The treatment of your child, mentally and physically
2: Ways to help your child improve
3: Concerns about your child’s behavior
4: Level of competition
Coaches are professionals. They make judgment decisions based on what they
believe to be best for all students involved. As you have seen from the
list above, certain things can be and should be discussed with your child’s
coach. Other things, such as those following, must be left to the
discretion of the coach.
Issues Not Appropriate to Discuss With Coaches:
1: Playing time
2: Team strategy
3: Play calling
4: Other student athletes
There are situations that may require a conference between the coach and the
parent. 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 used to help
promote a resolution to the issue.
If You Have a Concern to Discuss with a Coach, the procedure you should
follow is:
1: Call to set up an appointment
2: If the coach cannot be reached at school, then you may call him at
home
3: Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest
or practice. These can be emotional times for both the parent and
the coach. This does not promote resolution.
