A Message to Parents of Athletes

Ypsilanti Phoenix

Coach/Parent Relationship

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 our students. As parents, when your child becomes involved in our programs, you have the right to understand the expectations placed on your child. This begins with clear communication from the coach of your child’s team.

Communication You Can Expect from the Coach

  • Philosophy of the coach
  • Expectations the coach has for your child as well as all members of the team
  • Location and times of all practices and contests
  • Team requirements, i.e. fees, special equipment, off-season conditioning
  • Discipline that results in the denial of your child’s participation

Communication Coaches Can Expect from the Parents

  • Concerns expressed directly to the coach
  • Notification of any scheduling conflicts well in advance
  • Specific concerns regarding a coach’s philosophy and/or expectations

As your child becomes more involved in the Programs of Ypsilanti High School, they will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives. It is important to understand however, that there may be times when things do not go the way of your child’s wishes. At these times, discussion with the coach is encouraged.

Appropriate Concerns to Discuss

  • The treatment of your child mentally and physically
  • Ways to help your child improve
  • Concerns about your child’s behavior

As a parent, it is very difficult to accept your child not playing as much as you may hope. Coaches are professionals. They make judgments based on what they believe to be best for all students involved. As you have seen from the list above, certain things can and should be discussed with your child’s coach. Other issues, such as those listed below, must be left to the discretion of our professional staff.

Issues Not Appropriate to Discuss with Coaches

  • Playing Time
  • Team Strategy
  • Play Calling
  • Other Student/athletes

There are situations that arise that may require a conference between the coach and parent. This dialogue is encouraged. It is important that both parties have a clear understanding of the other’s position. When a conference is necessary, the following procedure should be used to help promote a resolution of the concern.

Procedure to use in Discussing Concerns with Coach

  • Call to set up an appointment. Please keep in mind that some of our coaches are teachers and some are not. Meeting times may vary.
  • If the coach cannot be reached, please call Chuck Fuller, Assistant Principal/Athletic Director, at (734) 714–1009.

Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. This can be an emotional time for all parties. Meetings in this setting usually do not promote resolutions.

The Next Step
What can a parent do if the meeting with the Coach did not provide a satisfactory resolution?

  • Call and set up an appointment with Chuck Fuller, Assistant Principal/Athletic Director at Ypsilanti High School
  • At this meeting, further appropriate steps can be discussed and determined.

Research shows us that participation in extra-curricular activities while in high school gives the student a greater chance during adulthood. A recent survey of America’s CEOs revealed that over 40% of these individuals participated in extra-curricular activities while in high school.

We are confident that the athletic program at Ypsilanti High School will aid in the preparation of those students who choose to participate in our programs. We are also hopeful that the information in this brochure will enhance both student and parent participation in our athletic programs.

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