As summer comes to an end, it`s time for many young athletes to start preparing for their upcoming sports seasons. Whether it`s football, soccer, basketball, or any other sport, it`s important for athletes, parents, and coaches to be on the same page when it comes to expectations for the season ahead. That`s where a pre-season athlete-parent-coach agreement comes in.
What is a pre-season athlete-parent-coach agreement?
Simply put, it`s a document that outlines the expectations and responsibilities for everyone involved in the upcoming sports season. This agreement is typically signed by the athlete, parents, and coach and covers topics such as attendance at practices and games, behavior on and off the field, academic requirements, and more.
Why is a pre-season athlete-parent-coach agreement important?
For athletes, having a clear understanding of what`s expected of them can help them stay focused and motivated throughout the season. For parents, it helps them understand their role in supporting their child`s athletic endeavors and ensures that everyone is on the same page when it comes to their child`s participation in the sport. And for coaches, it helps them establish clear expectations for their team and ensures that they have the support they need from both athletes and parents.
What should be included in a pre-season athlete-parent-coach agreement?
Every agreement will be different depending on the sport and the specific team, but here are a few things that should be included:
1. Attendance: Clearly outline the expectations for practices and games. This should include how many practices and games are mandatory, the consequences for missing a practice or game, and any other requirements for attendance (e.g., arriving on time).
2. Behavior: Establish expectations for behavior both on and off the field. This should include guidelines for sportsmanship, language, and behavior towards coaches, teammates, and opponents.
3. Academics: Set expectations for academic performance during the season. This can include requirements for maintaining a certain GPA or staying off academic probation.
4. Communication: Establish expectations for communication between athletes, parents, and coaches. This can include how often parents will receive updates from the coach and how athletes should communicate any issues or concerns they have.
5. Safety: Outline safety guidelines for practices and games. This can include guidelines for concussion protocol, equipment requirements, and guidelines for playing in extreme weather conditions.
How can a pre-season athlete-parent-coach agreement be enforced?
Once the agreement is in place, it`s important to ensure that everyone is following through on their commitments. Coaches should keep track of attendance and communicate any concerns to both athletes and parents. Parents should encourage their child to attend all practices and games and follow the behavior guidelines outlined in the agreement. And athletes should take responsibility for their own behavior and academic performance.
In conclusion, a pre-season athlete-parent-coach agreement is an essential tool for any successful sports team. By clearly outlining expectations and responsibilities, it ensures that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals. So if you`re a coach, athlete, or parent, make sure to take the time to create and sign a pre-season agreement before the season begins.
