Parenting and coaching are important, complementary vocations and by working together we can better provide benefits to the player. Since our kids are beginning to move into the adult world, one of our goals is to make them responsible for their own actions.
Since our goal as a program is to move each athlete forward in their development as a player and a person, it is our request that you encourage your child to discuss any of the issues first with their coach. Situations may arise that may require a conference between the coach, parent and a board member. These are to be encouraged, and it’s important that both parents/guardians of the player have a clear understanding of the other’s perspective.
The following guidelines have been established to protect the players, coaches and parents from awkward and inappropriate situations when it comes to the professional discussion and handling of grievances. The coaches within SBA have been instructed to adhere to these guidelines to better maintain the club/player/parent relationship.
The procedure to discuss concerns about policies and actions are as follows:
24 Hour Rule: Wait 24 hours after an event has passed:
1. The athlete should speak with the coach regarding the matter.
2. If the matter remains unresolved and there is a legitimate concern, the parent AND athlete should request to meet with the coach. Coaches will ONLY meet with parents when the athlete is present, and not at a tournament.
i) Please do not confront a coach before, during or after an event. Arrange to meet with your coach at a convenient time for all parties, including before or after practice.
ii) If a parent approaches a coach during a tournament, we have instructed our coaches to refuse to discuss the situation, to refer the parent to a club director, and walk away.
iii) We also instruct our coaches not to get involved in a digital conversation.
3. If the matter remains unresolved, the parent can request a meeting with the club director, the coach and the player. THE PLAYER MUST BE PRESENT AT THE MEETING.
It is important that players and parents alike understand that conversation with a coach is allowed and encouraged at any time throughout the season if it is civil and polite. However, when problems arise, we will all need to be rational and calm before discussion occurs.
To initiate the grievance process, please contact the coach by phone or schedule an in-person meeting. If coaches receive emails/text or other communication considered inappropriate, they are required by the Club to report those communications to the Board immediately.
Reporting Inappropriate Behavior of Club Staff: SBA maintains a policy that places the safety of the young athletes entrusted to our care and instruction as our highest priority. We watch team activities and interactions closely to try to prevent miscommunications that cause discomfort to any of the athletes or parents. If you see behavior of a SBA representative that you believe to be inappropriate, report it immediately to a board member. All complaints will be investigated. Anyone found to be in violation of policy would be subject to discipline, which may include dismissal. There will be no retaliation against any complainants and/or witnesses who participate in an investigation. If you have any questions regarding the SBA policies or procedures, please do not hesitate to contact a board member.