Both parenting and coaching are challenging commitments. By establishing an understanding of each position, all are better able to accept the actions of the other and provide a greater benefit to children. As parents, when your children become involved in an athletic program, you have a right to understand what expectations are placed on your child. This begins with clear communication from the coach of your child’s program.
 
COMMUNICATIONS TO EXPECT FROM ATHLETIC COACHING STAFFS

1. The Philosophy of the coach.
2. Expectations the coach has of your child as well as all the players on the team.
3. Locations and times of all practices and games.
4. Team requirements.
5. Procedure should your child be injured during participation.
6. Team Disciplinary action that results in denial of your child’s participation.
7. Procedures for honoring athletes at the end of the season.

COMMUNICATIONS COACHES EXPECT FROM THE PARENTS

1. Concerns expressed directly to the coach.
2. Notification of any scheduling conflicts well in advance.
3. Specific concerns in regard to coaches’ philosophy and/or expectations.

As your children become involved in the sports programs at Capital College & Career Academy, they will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives. The opportunity to build a program and play varsity sports for all four years of high school is unique in its own right. It is important to understand that there also may be times when things do not go the way your child wishes. At these times, discussion with the coach is encouraged.
 
PROCEDURE TO SET UP A PARENT/COACH CONFERENCE
There are situations that may require a parent conference between the coach and the parent. These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach.
 
PLEASE DO NOT CONFRONT THE COACH BEFORE OR AFTER THE PRACTICE OR GAME.
Meetings of this nature do not promote resolution. It is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the other’s position. When these conferences are necessary, the following procedure should be followed.
 
Call to set up an appointment with the coach. The CCCA school number is (916)234-0583  .
 
It is difficult to accept if your child’s not playing as much as you hope. Coaches are professionals. They make judgment decisions based on what they believe to be the best for all athletes involved. Certain things can and should be discussed with the coach. Other things must be left to the discretion of the coach.
 
APPROPRIATE CONCERNS TO DISCUSS WITH THE COACH

• The emotional and physical development of your child.
• Ways for your child to improve.
• Concerns about your child’s behavior with the team on the practice or game field.
• The future of your child’s play at the next level.

ISSUES NOT APPROPRIATE TO DISCUSS WITH THE COACH

• Team Strategy.
• Play calling.
• Other athletes.

WHAT CAN A PARENT DO IF THE MEETING DID NOT PROVIDE A RESOLUTION

• Call and set up an appointment with the Athletic Director.
• At this meeting the appropriate next step can be determined.

Since research indicates that a student involved in athletics has a greater chance for success during adulthood, these programs have been established. Many of the character traits required to be successful participants are exactly those that will promote a successful life after school.