EATON HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

As a parent it is sometimes difficult to accept that your child is not playing as much as you wish. Coaches are educators who make decisions based on what they believe to be the best for all student-athlete and the educational goals of Eaton High School. Certain concerns are appropriate to discuss with your son’s coach. Other areas, such as those listed below, must be left to the discretion of the coach and are not appropriate to discuss.

. Playing time

. Team Strategy

. Play calling

. Other student-athletes

There are situations that may require a conference between coach and player, or coach and parent. These conferences are encouraged as long as the subject is appropriate. It is important that all parties involved have a clear understanding of the other’s position. When a conference is necessary, the procedure outlined in the following sections should be useful in resolving concerns.

PARENT COACH RELATIONSHIP

Both parenting and coaching can be quite trying at times. Understanding and respecting the position of both parent and coach, children are better served through their experience in athletics. Clear communication between parents and coaches can help both realize the positive experiences that can be gained from participation in athletics.

COMMUNICATION YOU SHOULD EXPECT FROM YOUR SON’S COACH

. Philosophy of the coach.

. Expectations and goals the coach has for your son as well as for the team/season.

. Location and times of all practices and games.

. Team requirements, special equipment, strength & conditioning programs.

. Team expectations, guidelines and consequences for infractions.

As your son becomes involved in baseball, at Eaton High School, he will experience some of the most rewarding moments of his life. It is important to understand that there also may be times when things do not go the way your son wishes. At these times, discussions between the player and the coach are encouraged. It is the first and most important step to a mutual understanding.

APPROPRIATE CONCERNS TO DISCUSS WITH COACHES

1. The coach’s interaction with your son.

2. Ways to help your son improve his athletic skills

3. Concerns about your son’s interaction with others.

IF YOU HAVE A CONCERN TO DISCUSS WITH A PARTICULAR COACH, PLEASE FOLLOW THE

PROCEDURE BELOW

1. Contact the coach via school email

2. The coach should reply to you within 24 hours.

3. Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for the parent, the athlete and the coach. Meetings of this nature usually do not promote positive resolution.

PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT

. Be realistic about your son’s athletic ability.

. Help your son set realistic goals.

. Emphasize “improved” performance, not winning.

. Don’t relive your own athletic past through your son.

. Control your emotions at games and events.

. Remember that locker rooms and dugouts are for players, coaches and trainers only.

. Respect your son’s coaches. Communicate with them in a positive way. Encourage others to do the same.

. Be sensible, responsible and keep your priorities in order. There is a lot more at stake than a win or a loss.