Athletics Section: Volunteer Coaches Handbook

CONDUCTING A TEAM PARENT MEETING Great communication is the key to a successful season. Sharing expectations of the team with parents prior to the season can alleviate potential problems. A meeting can help mold the behavior

of your athletes’ parents. Find a setting for the meeting where you can have everyone’s full attention. Sample Agenda 1. Welcome and Introductions Discuss a little about yourself and why you decided to coach. Share some of your relevant background as a coach, participant and parent. 2. Philosophy and Policies • Share your coaching philosophy and the philosophy of Greensboro Parks and Recreation. • Share your policies on playing time, missing practice, etc. Ask that players first talk with the coach about concerns with playing time. • Discuss expectations for practice, attendance and behavior. • Set guidelines for game days. Make sure parents understand that you expect them to show good sportsmanship. • Discuss no “sideline coaching” from parents. This causes confusion and mixed messages. • Consider implementing a no talking policy about playing time or “issues” on game day. Emotions are too high for productive conversations and the focus should be on the players. 3. Rosters • Hand out rosters and confirm information. • Make sure everyone has practice

and game schedules.

coordinator, or scorekeeper. The Parks and Recreation Department requires all potential volunteers to complete the volunteer enrollment form.

4. Season Goals Talk about goals and hopes for the season, including player development, social growth, fitness, and fun. 5. Uniforms and Equipment • Talk about equipment parents must provide. • Review when uniforms will be distributed, and the need to dress appropriately for practice. • Provide approximate costs. 6. Logistics and Communication • Hand out a phone list (or get people to sign up on a list for distribution later). • Discuss the best number/email for your to be reached. • Discuss team communication and how it will be handled. (Email, phone tree, text, team web site, etc.) 7. Volunteers • The parent meeting is a good time to ask for any duties you need help with, such as the need for an assistant coach, snack

• Volunteers should fill out the Volunteer Enrollment Form at www.greensboro-nc.gov/ parksandrecvolunteer. 8. Safety • Talk about providing a safe

environment for players. Explain rules regarding equipment and safety instructions.

• Coaches should be alert to conditions that may be

dangerous to participants and take action to prevent them.

• Ask parents if there are any health concerns to be aware of with their children. Tell them to contact you to discuss in private. • First Aid, Emergency Action and Concussion protocol are covered in sport specific rules. 9. Fees • Miscellaneous expenses

• Awards and trophies 10. Wrap Up and Questions

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