Parent Communication

Parent Communication Guidelines

Both parenting and coaching are extremely difficult.  By establishing an understanding of each position, we are better able to accept the actions of the other and provide greater benefit to the athlete.  Parents have the right to understand what expectations are placed on their child. This begins with clear communication.

Communications Parents Can Expect From Their Athlete’s Coach

• Tryout process including dates, times & locations.

• Expectations the coach has for the players on the team.

• Locations and times of all practices and games.

• Team requirements like fees and special equipment.

• Procedures should your child be injured during participation.

• Discipline that results in the denial of your athlete’s participation.

Appropriate Concerns To Discuss With Coaches

• The treatment of your athlete.

• How to help your athlete improve.

• Concerns about your athlete’s behavior.

• Practice times, illnesses and vacations.

Issues Not To Be Discussed With Coaches

• Playing time.

• Team strategy.

• Play calling.

• Other athletes.

It is very difficult to accept your athlete not playing as much as you'd have hoped.  Coaches are professionals. They make judgement decisions based on what they believe to be best for their TEAM.

It is unacceptable to talk to the coach after an event.  Please wait 24 hours or more before contacting coaches with a concern. 

If you have a concern to discuss with the coach the procedure is:

1.  Athlete talks to the coach.  If the concern is not resolved then:

2.  Parents contact the coach to set up a meeting with the athlete present.  If the concern is not resolved then:

3.  Parents contact the Activities Director to set up a meeting between the Activities Director, coach, athlete and parent.

Feedback vs Solution  

Before contacting a coach or the AD, ask yourself if you are hoping to provide feedback or are seeking a solution? If you're seeking a solution, all stakeholders needs to be involved.  (Parents, athlete, coach, AD) 

Meeting Norms for Parent, Athlete, Coach & AD Meetings 

The four agreements 

1. Be impeccable with your word.  

2. Don't take things personally.

3. Don't make assumptions of others.  

4. Always do & give your best.