Communication Guide
for Parents and Coaches
Sportsmanship
We support the initiative that athletics promote the values of respect, integrity, cooperation,
self-discipline, sportsmanship and citizenship. It is imperative to control one's emotions and
conduct not only in defeat, but in victory as well. It is our goal to have NYA recognized for our
sense of fair play, sportsmanship, effort and character. We expect our students and parents to accept
the officials' decisions and conduct themselves in a respectful manner at all times. Athletes, coaches,
students and parents are expected to demonstrate and promote the positive values and characteristics of
good sportsmanship in all aspects of interscholastic athletics.
~ NYA Athletic Department
Parent and Staff Communication
Involvement in interscholastic sports requires a commitment from students, parents and coaches. In order to facilitate this commitment and have successful programs, communication must take place at all levels.
List of Athletic Staff and Coaches
Communication you should expect from athletic coaches:
When and where practices and contests are held
The philosophy of the Athletic Program and that of the coaches
The expectations that the coach has for all players
Necessary requirements to be part of the team
When your student athlete is injured during participation
Any disciplinary action that results in removal of your child from participation
What are the appropriate concerns to discuss with coaches?
The treatment of your child, mentally and physically
Skill improvement and development
Concerns about your child's behavior
Academic support, college opportunities
What is NOT appropriate to discuss with coaches?
Playing time
Team Strategy
Coaching strategy
Other student athletes (unless there has been a violation of rules or something that concerns that athlete's health and safety)
Selecting teams (rosters)
Communication coaches expect from parents:
Concerns expressed directly to coach
Notification of any scheduling conflicts well in advance
Support of the program:
~ Be sure your child is at practice on time
~ Be sure your child is picked up on time after games or practices
If you have a concern to discuss with a coach, what procedure should be followed?
Make an appointment with the coach
If the coach cannot be reached, call the Athletic Director to set up a meeting
Do not attempt to confront the coach before, during, or following a contest or practice. These are emotional times for both the parent and the coach and this period often does not promote objective analysis of the situation.
What can a parent do if the meeting with the coach does not provide a satisfactory resolution?
Call and set up an appointment with the Athletic Director to discuss the situation
At this meeting the appropriate next step can be determined
To maintain the best relationship between parents, players and coaches, communicate openly and appropriately. Problems and concerns are most effectively resolved when brought to the attention of coaches and/or administrators in a timely manner. It is our goal to make every student's athletic experience as positive as possible. We encourage your participation through open communication with the NYA coaches and administration.
Parent Support Checklist
Maintain a "Fun is #1" attitude.
Treat others as you wish to be treated.
Praise athletes for just participating, regardless of their athletic skills or performance.
Look for positives in athletes; avoid ridicule or sarcasm.
Remain calm when mistakes are made and help athletes learn from mistakes.
Help keep athletes from getting down on themselves when things do not go well.
Do not be obsessed with your involvement with sports. There is life after sports.
Maintain a sense of humor.
Emphasize teamwork in team sports; teach them to think "we" instead of "me."
Lead by setting a good example in sportsmanship: winning with humility and losing with dignity.