Parent and Coach Relationships in Youth Sports
Parent Tips for Building a Positive Relationship With a Youth Coach
Sep 23, 2009
Parents often find it difficult to take a back seat to their child's coach on the athletic field despite the fact that doing so is in the best interest of the child. In order to create the best possible athletic experience for a child, it is important that parents respect the coach and make an effort to establish a positive parent coach relationship. Consider the following tips when interacting with a child's coach.
Parent Tips for Establishing a Positive Relationship With a Coach
- Make early contact with the coach to establish a positive open line of communication.
- Recognize the commitment of the coach and the many hours he/she spends on and off the field preparing and teaching the athletes.
- Take the time to compliment the coach when there is just cause. Coaching is a difficult job and all too often coaches only hear complaints.
- Be there to support a child and cheer them on regardless of how well they play. Focus on the positives and let the coach correct mistakes.
- Cheer for all the players on the team and be sure to praise them for playing well.
- Encourage other parents to honor the game. If someone is showing disrespect for the other team or officials, respectfully suggest they honor the game.
- Observe a cooling off period of 24 hours when emotions are heated before discussing an issue with a coach.
- Follow the chain of command if the coach has assistants. Always address the head coach personally and respectfully when issues arise.
Tips for Avoiding a Negative Parent Coach Relationship
- Do not instruct a child during a game or practice. Parents are not coaches and it can be confusing to a child to hear instructions from someone other than a coach during a game.
- Do not disrespect the other team or officials.
- Do not put a player in the middle of a situation by complaining about the coach in front of the child. If a situation or concern arises, arrange to speak with the coach privately.
- Do not attempt to discuss the coach's game plan or voice suggestions for plays or coaching techniques.
- Do not approach a coach directly after a practice or a game. Emotions are at their highest at this time and can lead to a volatile situation.
- Do not discuss concerns/issues with other parents or coaches. Take concerns directly to the head coach.
The benefits of participation in a youth sports program are many and parents can set the groundwork for a wonderful athletic experience by establishing a positive parent coach relationship. Respect for coaches, players and officials is the essential common element that parents need to keep as a priority when implementing these tips.
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