Parent's notebook

here is a copy of what I put in my parent/player manual for the parents.

Parents Expectations:

1. Be positive with your student/athlete. Let them know you are proud they are part of the team. (focus on the benefits of teamwork and personal discipline)

2. Encourage your athlete to follow all training rules. Help the coaches build a commitment to the team. (set a good example in your personal life)

3. Allow your athlete to perform and progress at a level consistent with his ability.
(athletes mature at different ages; some are more gifted)

4. Always support the coaching staff when controversial decisions are made.
(the coaches need your backing to keep good morale on the team)

5. Insist on positive behavior in school and a high level of performance in the classroom.
(numerous studies indicate extracurricular involvement helps enhance academic performance)

6. Cheer for our team and players. Opponents and referees deserve respect.
(realize the high school players will make mistakes. Your support is needed during tough times.)

7. Promote having fun and being a team player. Very few high school athletes receive scholarships.
(concentrate on what is best for the team. Preoccupation with statistics can be very distracting.)

8. An athlete’s self-confidence and self-image will be improved by support at home. Comparison to other athletes is discouraged.
(encourage the athlete to do their best regardless of brothers or sisters who may have been outstanding players.)

9. Winning is Great, but building positive team values is most important.
(the concept of working together to perform a task will have lasting benefits. Winning takes place when all the little things are done correctly.)

10. Find the time to be an avid booster of school activities.
(help build a solid support system for ALL coaches and ALL athletes)

11. Athletes must attend all practices and contests.
(stress the necessity to make a commitment to the team. Practice is important.

12. Emphasize the importance of well - balanced meals and regular sleep patterns.
(an athlete functions best when care is taken to consume nutritious food and obtain sufficient rest.)

13. Many athletes enjoy participating in several sports.
(specialization in one sport may prevent an athlete from enjoying great team relationships in other activities.)

14. Persistence and being able to accept a role are extremely important for the team to be successful.
(not everyone can be a starter, but everyone is important to the team. Some players may not develop until their senior season. Encourage them to be persistent.)