Bethlehem Catholic Bethlehem Catholic

Parenting and coaching are both extremely difficult vocations. By establishing an understanding of each position, we are better able to accept the actions of the other and provide greater benefits to children. As parents, when your child is involved in our athletic program, you have the right to understand what expectations are placed upon him/her. This begins with clear communication from the coach of the sport.

Communication You Should Expect from the Coach:

• Philosophy of the Coach
• Expectations and goals he/she has for your child as well as for the team/season.
• Locations and times of all practices and contests.
• Team requirements, i.e., practices, special equipment, strength and conditioning programs.
• Team rules, guidelines and consequences for infractions that may result in the denial of your child’s participation.
• Proper care and responsibility for equipment issued by the school.
• Communication the Coach Expects from the Parents.
• Concerns expressed directly to the coach.
• Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance.

When your child becomes involved in the athletic programs at Bethlehem Catholic, he/she will experience some of the most challenging and rewarding times of his/her life. It is important to understand that there may be times when things do not go the way your child wishes. At these times, the expectation is that the student-athlete, not the parents, initiate a discussion with the coach about his/her concerns. We believe this approach is the most likely way to a positive end and also a valuable experience for the child. The coaches have been instructed to encourage this type of dialogue and to promptly set aside time for the individual, private appointments when requested.

Appropriate Concerns to Discuss with the Coach:

• The treatment of your child.
• Your child’s individual ability and performance.
• Concerns about your child’s behavior.

It is very difficult to accept your child’s not playing as much as you may hope. Coaches are professionals. They make judgment decisions based on what they believe to be best for all student-athletes involved. As you have read from the list above, certain things can be and should be discussed with the coach. Other things, such as those listed below, must be left to the discretion of the coach.

Concerns that Are Inappropriate to Discuss with the Coach:

• Playing time, positioning, event entry
• Team strategy
• Play calling
• Other student athletes

Situations may arise which require a conference between the coach and the parent. It is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the other’s position. When conferences are necessary, the following procedures should be followed to promote a solution to the issue of concern.

Conferences with the Coach:

• Encourage the student-athlete to speak directly with the coach.
• Call the coach to schedule an appointment.
• If the coach cannot be reached, call the Athletic Director to assist you in arranging a meeting.

NEVER attempt to discuss a concern with a coach before, during or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for both the coach and the parent. 

If a meeting with a coach does not provide a satisfactory resolution, call and set up an appointment with the Athletic Director to discuss the situation.

Our Expectations of the Parent/Guardian:

• Support your student-athlete’s efforts toward success.
• Work to promote a positive environment that is conducive to the development of the student-athlete.
• Become familiar with the rules and regulations concerning your child.
• Communicate any concerns in a timely manner according to the guidelines.
• Treat all coaches and coaching staff with courtesy and respect and insist that your child do the same.
• Emphasize that enjoying the experience of participating as a student-athlete is far more important than the outcome of the game.