Parent/Athlete/Coach Communication Guide

Our Philosophy:

Athletic achievement requires sincere commitment from all athletes, parents, coaches,

and athletic administrators. For all of us to be successful, effective communication must occur. We are continually attempting to improve communication between all who are involved with Deering High School Boys Basketball. For our program to be truly

successful, it is necessary that everyone understand the focus and direction of the

program.

Your Expectations

A. It is reasonable to expect your child’s coach to inform you:

1. When and where practices and contests are held (practices will be announced and a

    written schedule will be given to your child to bring home)

2. About the program’s coaching philosophy

3. About the expectations he has for all athletes on the squad as well as your individual

    child

4. What is required to be part of the team, i.e., fees, special equipment, off season

    conditioning, (etc.)

5. If your child is injured during participation in a practice or contest

6. Whenever any disciplinary action results in your son being denied participation in

a practice or game.

There are aspects to our program that are the sole responsibility of the coach and should not be part of any discussion. For Example:

A. It is inappropriate to discuss with a coach:

1. Playing time.

2. Team strategy or play calling.

3. Other student athletes.

B. Coaches often need parents to tell them:

1. Any specific health concerns about your son expressed directly and informally to the

    head coach at a mutually convenient time.

2. Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance.

3. Your commitment to the program, and how you plan to make a contribution to the

    program’s success. For example, one way is to be sure your youngster is at practice    

    each day on time and to supervise that your child gets enough rest and nutrition at  

    home.

C. If you have a concern to discuss with a coach, what procedure should you follow?

1. Encourage your son to resolve his conflict with the coach. Intervention by a parent 

    should be a last resort.

2. Make an appointment with the coach. Never approach the coach after a game unless  

    the coach requests this

3. If the coach cannot be reached, call the Athletic Director to set up a meeting. The

   discussion will include “next steps”

4. Please do not attempt to confront a coach before, during, or following a contest or

    practice These can be busy and emotional times for both the parent and the coach  

    and this period does not promote objective analysis of the situation.

D. What should you do if the meeting with the coach does not result in a satisfactory

    resolution to the problem?

1. Call and set up an appointment with the Athletic Director and Coach to discuss the  

    situation. At this meeting the appropriate next step can be determined

HELPFUL HINTS FOR PARENTS OF STUDENT ATHLETES

Hints for Effective Communication with Your Athlete's Coach

! Know the coach’s and school's philosophy and expectations for athletic participation.

! Encourage your son to resolve his conflicts with the coach. Intervention by a

  parent should be a last resort.

! Discuss issues with the coach by appointment at a mutually convenient time. Don't  

  approach the coach immediately after a game or practice.

! Respect the coach's position and realize that, as a coach, he has many difficult 

  decisions to make.

! Understand the appropriate balance between individual needs and team  

  responsibilities.

! Honor fair play and good sportsmanship.

! Demonstrate your interest by attending preseason meetings, competitions, and post 

  season banquets.

Hints for Enhancing Your Athlete's Sports Experience

! Encourage and model good sportsmanship.

! Provide an environment that encourages a healthy lifestyle.

! Know that judgments and expectations can have negative effects.

! Help your son to understand the appropriate balance between individual needs and

  team responsibilities.

! Teach good time management skills.

! Support and respect the athletic program and coaches

! Learn about the nutritional need of athletes.

! Support your athlete's achievements and respect his challenges.

! Use only constructive remarks when talking to your athlete about a performance.

! Refrain from criticizing the coach in front of your child or any other members of the

  basketball community. Talk to the coach directly if you have concerns.

! Remember that athletic scholarships are very difficult to attain. Plan appropriately.

Resource: The Maine Center for Coaching Education, University of Maine