For Coaches

Physicals protocols

All students must be cleared for participation prior to attending tryouts. Students must have all physical forms completed on the BigTeams website. Coaches will have access to the site for updated rosters. Students are not allowed to participate in tryouts or practices until officially cleared. 

Communicating with athletes/parents

All coaches are expected to develop their own means of communicating with athletes/parents. Coaches should communicate schedule changes, practice cancellations, and any important team updates. Examples of acceptable communication platforms:

-- Remind app

-- Gmail email lists

-- Band app

-- TalkingPoints

Supervision responsibilities

Coaches are expected to supervise players at all times and should never leave athletes unattended. Coaches are responsible to remain at the school until all players have departed on their transportation home. 

All coaches should arrive to practices & games promptly. Any difficulties with arrival should be communicated with the Athletic Coordinator to ensure supervision of athletes. 

Student transportation home from practices & contests

Late buses will be available for all students to take home. There will be three late buses home (east end, west end, and township). All buses will depart from the school at 5:45 p.m. unless otherwise specified. Any students present at the school at the time the late buses depart must be put on the buses to ensure safe transportation home. 

Athletic contests may end after the departure time of the late buses. Therefore, students must set up their own transportation home prior to the day of the contest. Any students without arranged transportation home should not attend away games. School transportation is not available after the late buses depart. 

Uniform distribution, log, & collection

Coaches will be responsible for distributing uniforms and equipment to all players. All items distributed should be logged on a google sheet, with the student names, and turned into the Athletic Coordinator upon completion. At the end of the season coaches will mark all returned equipment on the log and report any missing items to the Athletic Coordinator as soon as possible.

Equipment

Coaches should inventory team equipment at the beginning of each season. Any equipment that is missing or needed should be reported to the Athletic Coordinator as soon as possible. All equipment should be accounted for at the end of each season. 

Team contract

All coaches should develop their own team contract that sets clear expectations and governs player behavior. The team contract should set clear rules and explain how the coach will communicate with all players & parents. Coaches should refer to their team contract when determining consequences for undesirable behaviors. The coaches will determine all disciplinary action in regards to athletics for behaviors in school and during team activities. 

Eligibility

Students are expected to uphold eligibility requirements outlined by their middle school. See your school's athletic policies for eligibility requirements & procedures. 

General Coaching Responsibilities

1. Develop and implement practice plans and game strategies to enhance the skills and performance of student-athletes.

2. Provide a safe and inclusive environment that fosters teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship among student-athletes.

3. Communicate regularly with parents and guardians to provide updates on practice schedules, game details, and student-athlete progress.

4. Attend and supervise practices, games, and team events to ensure a positive and supportive experience for all participants.

5. Collaborate with other coaches, school staff, and administrators to ensure the smooth operation of the athletics program.

6. Uphold and enforce school and league policies, including those related to player eligibility, conduct, and safety.

7. Identify and address the individual needs and challenges of student-athletes, offering guidance and support to help them reach their full potential.

8. Promote good sportsmanship and ethical behavior among student-athletes, both on and off the field.

9. Encourage a lifelong love for physical activity, teamwork, and healthy competition.

10. Serve as a positive role model for student-athletes, demonstrating integrity, dedication, and a passion for the sport.