Parent/Coach Communication

March 21, 2022

Parent/Coach Communication Policy 

The Village School Athletic Department provides a variety of enrichment possibilities and sports offerings that promote positive life habits and teach our students the value of commitment, sportsmanship, and overcoming adversity. These characteristics bring an incredible sense of pride and enthusiasm to all members of the Viking family and embody what we call our Culture of Champions. Because of our unified goal as coaches, parents, and student-athletes working together to instill strong core values, it is imperative that we follow our communication guidelines and parameters. 

As Viking student-athletes, we understand:

  • Team membership and playing time are not guaranteed at any level. The decision of who makes the team, who plays at what position, and who is given the most playing time is within the sole and absolute discretion of the coaching staff. 
  • The primary goal of sub-varsity programs is to identify, develop, and prepare qualified athletes for possible future varsity play. 

Communication that a Parent/Guardian Should Expect from a Coach if requested 

  • The coach's vision for all program levels, rules, and disciplinary consequences.
  • Expectations and requirements for student-athletes on the team (attendance, grades, dress, conduct, etc.) 

Communication a Coach Expects from a Student-Athlete if needed: 

  • Notification that the student-athlete is ill or injured. 
  • Advance notice if the student-athlete will miss practice or a contest. 
  • Clarifying questions about team procedures and time commitments. 
  • Any concerns are first addressed directly to their coach.

It is NOT appropriate to engage in a discussion about roster selection, starting lineup, playing time, captains, other student-athletes, and team strategy/play calling. Also, the coach will NEVER discuss student-athletes with anyone other than the parent/guardian of the student-athlete involved. It is extremely difficult to accept that your child is not playing as much as you may hope. Coaches are professionals; they make decisions based on what they believe to be in the best interest of The Village School, the team, and your child. Even when the above communication expectations are met by all parties, concerns sometimes arise. Should that happen, please address your concern according to the process below: 

PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE COACH WITH COMPLAINTS WITHIN 24 HOURS AFTER A PRACTICE OR 48 HOURS AFTER A GAME. 

Here are the steps you should follow: 

  1. The student-athlete discusses his concern directly with the coach - if not resolved
  2. The parent, coach, and the student-athlete are required to meet - if not resolved
  3. The parent should request to meet with the athletic director, student, and coach via email