Both parenting and coaching are extremely difficult vocations. By establishing an understanding of each position, we are better able to accept the actions of the other and provided greater benefit to our athletes.
As parents, when your child becomes involved in our program, you have a right to understand what expectations are placed on your child. This begins with clear communication from the coach of their respective team.
Communication you should expect from your child's coach:
- Philosophy of the coach
- Location and times of practices and games
- Team requirements
- Injury procedure
- Team discipline and behavior
Communication coaches expect from parents:
- Concerns expressed directly to the coach
- Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance
- Specific concerns with regard to a coachs philosophy and expectations
As your child becomes involved in the programs at Mountain View Middle School, they will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their life. It is important that your child understand that there also may be times when things do not go the way they expect. At these times, discussion with the coach is encouraged. For example, the treatment of your child both mentally and physically, ways to help your child improve, concerns about your childs attitude, academic support and college opportunities.
It is very difficult to accept your childs not playing as much or where you may hope. Coaches are professionals. They make judgments based on what they believe to be best for all athletes involved. Certain things can be and should be discussed with the coach. Other things should be left to the discretion of the coach. For example; team strategy, other players, etc
There are situations that may require a conference between the coach and parent. It is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the athletes position. The following procedures should be followed to help promote resolution:
Call the school to set up an appointment with the coach. Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a game. This time can be emotional for all. Meetings of this nature do not promote resolution. If the meeting with the coach did not provide satisfactory resolutions, then a meeting with the Athletic Director is the next step.
Since research indicates a student involved in co-curricular activities has a greater chance for success during adulthood, these programs have been established. Many character traits required to be a successful participant are exactly those that will promote a successful life after high school. We hope the information provided on this page makes both your childs and your experience with the Goffstown Athletic program less stressful and more enjoyable.
Respectfully,
Steve Fountain
Director of Athletics