Parent/Coach Communication Guide

PRINTER FRIENDLY PAMPHLET

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 benefits to our students. As parents, when your child becomes involved in our program, you have a right to understand the expectations placed on your child. This begins with clear communication from the coach of your child’s team.

COMMUNICATIONS:

You can expect from the coach:

• Expectations the coach has for your child as well as all members of the team.
• Location and times of all practices and contests, as well as, policies on pick-up times.
• Procedures should your child be injured during practices or contests.
• Discipline that results in the denial of your child’s participation.

Coaches can expect from parents:

• Concerns expressed directly to the coach.
• Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance.
• Specific concerns regarding a coach’s philosophy and / or expectations.

As your child becomes involved in the programs of TVMS, he/she will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives. It is important to understand, however, that there may be times when things do not go the way you or your child wishes.

Concerns Appropriate to Discuss with Coaches

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

As a parent, at times, it is very difficult to accept your child’s playing time. Coaches make judgment calls based on what they believe to be best for all students involved. As you have seen from the list above, certain things can and should be discussed with your child’s coach. Other issues, such as those listed below must be left to the discretion of our professional staff.

Concerns NOT Appropriate to Discuss with Coaches

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

There are situations that arise that may require a conference between coach and parent or athletic director and parent. This dialogue is encouraged. It is important that both parties have a clear understanding of the others’ position. When a conference is necessary, the following procedure should be used to help promote a resolution of the concerns.

What procedures should a parent use in discussing concerns with a coach?

• Call to set up an appointment. Please keep in mind that most coaches are classroom teachers or employed during the day and meeting time during the academic day may be limited.
• The school phone number is (574) 598-2200.
• If the coach cannot be reached, please contact the athletic office.

Please DO NOT attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. This can be an emotional time for all parties. Meetings in this setting usually do not promote resolution.

The characteristics that make a good person also make a good athlete. Respect, the ability to work with others, an unselfish attitude, dependability, commitment, and pure determination are frequently more important to athletic success than raw talent alone. Athletes with a lot of desire can go further and become more successful than others who have more ability. Lucky is the athlete who has both talent and a good character. Natural talent only determines the limits of your athletic potential. It's dedication and a willingness to discipline your life that makes you great.