Warwick School District

Coaches and Parents Communication Plan

Coaches and Parents Communication Plan

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 provide greater benefits to children. As parents, when your children become 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 your child's program. 

Communications you should expect from your child's coach:

  • Philosophy of the coach.
  • Expectations the coach has for your child, all the players on the squad, and the squad as a whole.
  • Location and times of all practices and contests.
  • Team requirements, i.e., practices, special equipment, out-of-season opportunities or conditioning programs.
  • Actions that could lead to discipline which may result in the denial of your child's participation.

Communication coaches expect from parents: 

  • Concerns expressed directly to the coach.
  • Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance.

As your child becomes involved in the programs of the Warwick School District, they will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives. It is important to understand that there also may be times when things do not go the way you or your child wishes. At these times discussion with the coach is encouraged.

Appropriate concerns to discuss with coaches:

  • The treatment of your child.
  • Ways to help your child improve.
  • Concerns about your child's behavior.

It is difficult to accept your child's not playing as much as you hope. Coaches are professionals and they make judgements based on what they believe to be best for each student involved, the team, and the program. As you have seen from the list above, certain things can be and should be discussed with your child's coach. Other things, such as the amount of playing time, coaching strategies, and concerns about other students should be left to the discretion of the coach.


There are situations that may require a conference between the coach and the parent. These are to be encouraged. It is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the other's position. When these conferences are necessary, the following procedures should be followed to help promote a resolution to the issue or concern.

If there is a concern to discuss with a coach, the procedure you should follow: 

  1. Please encourage your child to speak directly to the coach. Many times the matter can be taken care of through this process.
  2. Call the coach to set up an appointment.
  3. If the coach cannot be reached, call the athletic director's office. We will assist you in arranging a meeting.
  4. Please do not present your concerns to a coach before or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach.
  5. If the meeting with the coach does not provide a satisfactory resolution, call and set up an appointment with the director of athletics to discuss the situation.

Expectations of Parent/Guardian

Support their student athlete's efforts toward success.

Work to promote a positive environment that is conducive to the development of the student athlete.

Become familiar with, and review the rules and regulations with the student athlete.

Communicate any concern in a timely manner, according to district protocol.

Treat all coaching personnel with courtesy and respect, and insist their student athlete do the same.

Since research indicates a student involved in extra-curricular activities has a greater chance for success during adulthood, the school district has implemented many co-curricular programs or activities. Many of the 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 here makes both your child's and your experience with the Warwick School District athletic program less stressful and more rewarding and enjoyable.