The Roles in the Relationship Between Coach, Parent, and Athlete
Being a part of an athletic program is not easy; the athlete’s must have a great amount of self-discipline. We believe that when a teenage player grows into adulthood, he/she will use what he/she learns here to meet the expectations and responsibilities placed on them. Living up to these high standards, we feel, will better prepare our athletes for life ahead of them. Knowing the roles of the three main elements in an athletic program, coach, parent, and athlete, is vital in the success of the athlete.
Coaches Role
• Set a good example for players and fans to follow.
• Be positive, fair, and consistent with the players.
• Making playing time and strategy decisions with thought and care.
• Establish and organize practice for the team on a daily basis.
• Be a good communicator with parents and players.
• Protect the safety of all athletes.
• Know and employ injury prevention procedures.
• Make sure all players know the expectations, procedures and rules for the program.
• Make sure everyone has practice and game schedules.
• Be a professional practitioner in dealing with situations in the sport and stay current with the X’s and O’s.
• Keep inventory of equipment.
• Work to help assistants improve.
• Keep track of academic progress of athletes.
• Be available to talk with players and parents.
Parent’s Role
• Be a fan of everyone on the team.
• Respect the decision of officials.
• Respect other fans, coaches, and athletes.
• Talk to their child if they have any questions and, if they still have questions, contact the coach through athletic department procedures.
• Don’t put your child in the middle by talking negatively about the coach, program or teammates through conversation.
• Don’t talk to coaches on game day about a complaint. Make an appointment at the appropriate time for both parties. The coach has the final discretion.
• Understand the coach’s responsibility is to make sure the students are safe and become better people and athletes, not to win every game.
• Be supportive of the child and of the program.
Player’s Role
• Be positive and have a good attitude.
• Support your teammates.
• Always work hard!
• If they have any questions, asks the coach – “The only dumb question is the one that you do not ask.”
• Know and follow school and team rules.
• Challenge themselves as a student, person and athlete.
• Meet everyday classroom expectations.
• Notify the coach of any scheduling conflicts in advance.
• Talk to the coach about any special concerns.