- Henderson HS
- HHS Parent/Coach Communication Guidelines
The Parent/Coach Relationship
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Both parenting and coaching are extremely difficult vocations. By establishing an understanding of each position, we are able to accept the actions of the other and provide greater benefit to children. As parents, when your child becomes involved in our program, you have the right to understand what expectations are placed on your child. This begins with clear communication from the coach of your child’s program.
Communication You Should Expect From Your Child’s Coach
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- Philosophy of the coach
- Expectations the coach has for your child.
- Locations and times of all practices and contests.
- Team requirements, i.e. Booster fees, special equipment, off-season conditioning.
- Procedure should your child be injured during participation.
- Discipline that results in the denial of your child’s participation.
If You Have A Concern To Discuss With A Coach, The Procedure Is:
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- Call 484-266-3431 to set-up an appointment.
- If the coach cannot be reached, leave a message for them to return your call. If the coach does not call you back within 48 hours, please contact Steve Fitch, Henderson Athletic Director. Mr. Fitch will arrange the meeting for you.
- Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach.
Inappropriate Issues To Discuss With Coaches
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- Playing time
- Team Strategy
- Play Calling
- Other student or athletes
There are situations that may require a conference between the parent and the coach. These conferences are encouraged. It is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the other’s position. When conferences are necessary, the following procedure should be followed to help promote a resolution to the issue of concern.
Communication Coaches Expect From Parents
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- Concerns expressed directly to the coach.
- Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance.
- Specific concerns in regard to a coach’s philosophy and/or expectations.
As your children become involved in the program at Henderson High School, they will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives. It is important to understand that there are also many times when things do not go the way you or your child wishes. At these times discussion with the coach is encouraged.
The Next Step
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What can a parent do if the meeting with the coach did not provide a satisfactory resolution?
- Call 484-266-3431 and set up an appointment with Steve Fitch, Henderson Athletic Director, to discuss the situation.
- At this meeting, the appropriate next step can be determined.
Since research indicates a student involved in co-curricular activities has a greater chance for success during adulthood, these programs have been established. Many of the character traits required to be successful participants are exactly those that will promote a successful life after high school. We hope the information provided makes your child’s and your experience with athletics a successful one.
Appropriate Concerns To Discuss With The Coaches
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- The treatment of your child, mentally and physically.
- Ways to help your child improve.
- Concerns about your child’s behavior.
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Contact Information
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Steve Fitch, sfitch@wcasd.net P: 484-266-3431, F: 484-266-3399
Henderson High School, 400 Montgomery Avenue, West Chester, PA 19382Download and print the Parent and Coach Communications Guidelines