Caledonia High School Athletic Department

Coach/Parent Communication

Coach/Parent 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 programs, 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

*Philosphy of the coach

*Expectaions the coach has for your child as well as all members of the team

*Location and times of all practices and contests

*Team rerquirements, i.e., fees, special equipment, off-season conditioning

*Discipline that results in the denial of your child's participation

Communication Coaches Can Expect from the Parents

*Concerns expressed directly to the coach

*Notification of any scheduling conflicts well in advance

*specific concerns regarding a coach's philosophy and/or expections

As your child becoms more involved in the prgrams of Caledonia High School, they 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 of your child's wishes. At these times, discussion witht he coach is encouraged.

Appropriate concers to Discuss with Coaches

*The treatment of your child mentally and physically

*Ways to help your child improve

*concersns about your child's behavior

As a parent, it is very difficult to accept your child not palying as much as you may hope. c oaches are profesionals. they make judgements 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 ith your child's coach. Other issues, such as those listed below, must be left to the discretion of our professional staff.

Issues Not Appropriate to Discuss with coaches

*Playing Time

*Team Strategy

*Play Calling

*Other student atheltes

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

Procedure to use in Discussing Concerns with a Coach

*Call to set up and appointment. Please keep in mind that most of our coaches are classroom teachers and meeting times during the academic day may be limited.

*If the coach cannot be reached, please call Scott Weis, Director of Athletics, at 891-0211.

*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 Next Step

What can a parent do if the meeting with the coach did not provide satisfactory resolution?

*Call and set up an appointment with the Director of Athletics to discuss the situation.

*At this meeting, further appropriate steps can be discussed and deteremined.

Research shows us that participåtion in extra-curricular activities in high school gives the student a greater chance during adulthood. A recent survey of America' CEO's revealed that over 40% of these individuals participated in extra curricular activities while in high school.

We are confident that the athletic program at Caledonia High School will aid in the preparation of those students who choose to participate in our programs. wea re also heopeful that the information in this brochure will enhance both student and parent participation in our athletic program.