HOW TO DISCUSS AN APPROPRIATE CONCERN WITH A COACH

Whenever a question, concern, or complaint arises regarding an athletic situation, the Athletic Department has found the following line of communication to be very effective in resolving issues.

1. START WITH THE SOURCE. Talk directly with the coach in private, face to face, or away from the practice site or game arena. A telephone call may be necessary to arrange an appointment.
   
   E-mail and voicemail are good methods for communicating information, but they are not as effective for communicating concerns because they tend to distance coaches and parents. Making an appoinment and having both sides sit down and listen is far more productive in reaching a mutually satisfying resolution.
   
   Coaches are expected and encouraged to meet with individual parents to discuss concerns that affect their student. Coaches are not expected to meet with groups of parents to discuss issues of concern.
   
   Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after practice or a contest. These can be emotional times for both the parent tand the coach. Coaches are not expected to endure verbal or physical abuse from parents. Please, make an appointment with your student's coach and discuss concerns. Help teach your student the skills of mature, conflict resolution.
   
   
2. If necessary and if your concern is with a sub-varsity coach, talk next with the head coach of the sport.
   
   
3. if necessary, talk next with the Athletic Director.
   
   
4. If necessary, talk next with the Principal.
   
   
5. If necessary, talk next with the Superintendent or designee.
   
   All complaints must be heard at the lowest possible level before intervention by a higher authority can occur. This system works well and the Athletic Department is committed to abide by it. However, the next level arbitrator is always willing to meet with a complaintant if sub-level discussions do not accomplish their intended purpose.