Developing the 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 children. As parents, when your child becomes involved in 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 child’s program.
Communication you should expect from your child’s coach:
- Philosophy of the coach.
- Expectations the coach has for your child, as well as all of the players on the squad.
- Locations and times of all practices and contests.
- Team requirements (i.e., fees, rules, and special equipment).
- Procedure should your child be injured during participation.
- Discipline that results in denial of your child’s participation.
Communication coaches expect from parents:
- Concerns expressed directly to the coach.
- Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance.
- Specific concern in regard to a coach’s philosophy and/or expectations.
- Team requirements (i.e., fees, rules, and special equipment)
- Procedure should your child be injured during participation.
- Discipline that results in denial of your child’s participation.
Appropriate concerns to discuss with the coaches:
As your children become involved in the West Genesee Interscholastic Athletic Program, they will experience some of the most rewarding moments in their lives. It is important to understand that there also may be times when things do not go the way you or your child wishes. At these times, discussion with the coach is encouraged.
- The treatment of your child, mentally and physically.
- Ways to help your child improve.
- Concerns about your child’s behavior.
It is very difficult to accept your child’s not playing as much as you hope. Coaches are professionals. They make decisions based on what they believe to be the 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 things, such as those following, must be left to the discretion of the coach.
Issues not appropriate to discuss with coaches:
- Playing time-please wait 24 hours to discuss playing time issues with a coach and not immediately after a contest.
- Team strategy
- Play calling
- Other student athletes
Procedure to follow to discuss a concern with a coach:
There are situations that may require a conference between the coach and the parent. 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. Meetings of this nature do not promote a resolution to the issue of concern. To help facilitate both parties understanding of a situation, a conference is encouraged.
Please call to set up an appointment:
If the coach cannot be reached, call the athletic director or assistant athletic director and they will arrange the appointment.