Kennett High School
Athletic Department
Parent-Coach Communication Plan
As a parent of a student athlete at KCSD, you must remember that participation on an athletic team is a privilege and not a right. Therefore, you have the right to know the expectations placed upon you and the student athlete. Both parenting and coaching are extremely difficult jobs. Clear communication between parents and coaches is essential in maximizing the learning that takes place and the effectiveness our programs.
As a parent, you should expect the following from the coaching staff:
- Explanation of coach’s philosophy
- Expectations for your child, players and the team
- Time and locations of all practices and contests
- Requirements for practices and games (e.g. proper uniform and equipment)
- Out of season conditioning programs and opportunities
- Discipline policy – Actions which would cause disciplinary measures and consequences
- Coaches should be approachable about parental concerns
Coach’s expectations of parents:
- Parents should express concerns directly to the coach
- Notification of any type of schedule conflicts (e.g. religious holidays, travel team commitments, etc.)
Many student athletes experience some of their most memorable moments of their high school career though participation in athletic programs. However, all teams face adversity and times when things do not go the way the athlete or parent wishes. At these times, open discussion is encouraged with the coach.
Parental concerns which should be discussed with the coaches:
- Treatment of your child both physically and emotionally
- Ways in which your child could improve
- Behavioral concerns
All parents wish that their children will have maximum playing time. It can be difficult for parents to understand why their child is not playing as much as they wish. It is the KCSD expectation that the coach, as a professional, makes the correct judgments based on what the coach feels is best for the athletes, the team and the program. Factors such as coaching strategies, schemes and concerns about other students should be left to the discretion of the coach.
There may be situations that require a conference between the parents and coach. These are to be encouraged so that both sides understand the others’ concerns and ideas. The discussion should be handled confidentially and in a professional manner. The following guidelines should be followed to help resolve any issues or concerns.
If there is a concern to discuss with a coach, please follow this procedure:
- Encourage your son or daughter to speak directly to the coach. An athlete should not fear retribution from a coach. This should be a positive exchange on how the athlete can improve.
- Call to schedule an appointment with the coach.
- If the coach cannot be reached, call the Athletic Director’s Office. They will assist in arranging a meeting.
- Do not approach a coach before or after a practice or contest unless an appointment has been scheduled. This can be a very emotional time for the athlete, parent and coach.
- If a meeting with a coach did not provide a satisfactory resolution, call the Athletic Director’s Office to schedule an appointment to discuss the problem.
KCSD’s Expectations of the parent/guardian:
- Support your son’s or daughter’s efforts toward success.
- Be positive in your approach to your student athlete’s role on the team.
- Understand the rules and regulations that the student athlete must follow for the coach, as well as for KCSD.
- Communicate any concerns following the protocol outlined in this plan.
- Parents should treat coaches with courtesy and respect and insist that their son or daughter do the same.
We trust that your son’s or daughter’s participation in the KCSD athletic programs will be a positive experience and help prepare them for successful future. Many of the character traits needed to excel in life can be reinforced on the practice and playing field. We hope the information provided in this pamphlet will help the KCSD athletic program deliver a rewarding experience to both you and your child.
