For The Parents

1. 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 benefit to the children. As parents, when your children become involved in this program, you have a right to understand what our expectations of your child are. This must begin with clear communication for coaches.
   1. Communication you can expect from your child’s coach:
      1. The philosophy of the coach
      2. Location and times of all practices and contests.
      3. Team requirements; e.g. practices, special equipment
      4. Procedure followed in the event of an injury
      5. Discipline that may result in the denial of your child’s participation.
   2. Communication coaches expect from parents:
      1. Concerns expressed directly to the coach
      2. Notification of any schedule conflicts as far in advance as practical
2. Through high school sports, your children will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives. However, there may be times when things do not go the way you or your child had hoped. At these times, discussion with the coach about ways to rectify the problem is encouraged. Examples:
   1. Inappropriate behavior toward your child by others
   2. Ways to help your child improve their performance
   3. Concerns about your child’s behavior and attitude
   4. Academic support, college opportunities
3. It may be difficult to accept if your child does not play where, or as much as you had hoped. The judgments made by the coach in these areas are based on their evaluation of what is best for all students involved. These judgments will be made as fairly and objectively as possible. As you have seen from the list above, certain things can and should be discussed with the coach. Other things must be left to the coaches discretion:
   1. Team Strategy
   2. Other student athletes
4. Certain Situations may require a conference between the coach and the parent. These are to be encouraged. It is important that both parties have a clear understanding of each other’s position. To schedule a conference with the coach:
   1. Call the coach to set an appointment
   2. If the coach cannot be read, call the Athletic Director at the High School
   3. Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. These are often emotional times for both the coach and the parent. A meeting at this time is unlikely to provide resolution to the problem.
   4. If meeting with the coach does not resolve the problem, your next step is to meet with the Athletic Director to discuss the situation.
5. Many studies indicate that students involved in co-curricular activities have greater chances for success during adulthood. Many of the character traits required to be a successful participant are exactly those that will promote a successful life after school. We hope that the information in this packet makes your child’s and your experience with RVHS soccer program less stressful and more enjoyable