Coach's Tips on Dealing With Parents

When watching their child play sports, parents may not always agree with coaching decisions. Playing time at all levels of sports can be an issue between coaches and parents. It's important for coaches to be proactive in developing a relationship with parents for the good of the players and team.

  1. Meet Before the Season

    • Before the season, coaches should try and meet with the parents of each athlete. This is an opportunity for coaches to show them their credentials and talk about the expectations of their child and team. Parents can develop a rapport with coaches and may feel more comfortable with the decisions they make during the season. This is also a chance to explain to parents the importance of getting to practice on time and making sure their child has the proper equipment.

    Let Parents Watch Practice

    • More than anything, many parents want to be involved with their child and be able to have shared experiences. This is a chance for parents to gain an understanding of how a coach runs practice. Parents can see how hard the players practice and maybe observing practice will offer an opportunity for them to buy into a coaching philosophy. This also shows them how playing is determined, through practice.

    Remain Calm

    • When it comes to their children and playing time, parents have a tendency to be a bit sensitive. If a parent is having a serious issue about playing time and becomes a little overzealous, it's important to remain calm. Let the parents speak their mind and don't interrupt them; this may cause more aggravation. Once it's your turn to speak, it's important to focus on the child -- don't compare players, refrain from raising your voice and stay positive.

    Allow Parents to Contribute

    • During the season, a team is almost like a family, and players spend a lot of time together in practice, traveling together and even socializing with one another. Coaches may want to encourage parents to play host to team parties and pre-game meals. This is a way for parents to focus their energies in a positive way and contribute to the overall quality of the team.