Parent/Coach Relationship:
Both parenting and coaching are extremely difficult. By establishing an understanding of each position, we are better able to accept the actions of the other and provide greater benefit to the students. As parents, when your child becomes involved in our program, you have a right to understand what expectations are placed on your child. This begins with clear communication from the coach of your child's team.

Communication you should expect from your child's coach:

1. Philosophy of Coach
2. Expectations the coach has for your child
3. Location and times of all practices and contests
4. Team requirements, i.e. special equipment, meal money, etc.
5. Procedures should your child be injured during practice or contest
6. Discipline

Communication coaches expect from parents/players:

1. Concern expressed directly to the coach and not to the fans
2. Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance.
3. Specific concern in regard to a coach's philosophy and or expectations.
4. Notification when a practice (during or after school) will be missed.

As your children become involved in the baseball program at Jim Ned High School, they will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives. It is important to understand that there also my be situations or coaching decisions that you or your child may not agree with. At these times, discussions with the coach are encouraged.

Appropriate Concerns to Discuss with Coaches:

1. The treatment of your child mentally and physically
2. Ways to help your child improve
3. Concerns about your child's behavior (on and off the field).

It is very difficult to accept your child's lack of playing time. Coaches are professionals and they make judgement decisions based on what they believe to be in the best interest of the team and program.

Issues Not Appropriate to Discuss with Coaches:

1. Playing time
2. Team Strategy
3. Play Calling
4. Other Players

There are situations that may require a conference between the coach and the parent. These are to be encouraged. It is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the other's position. When these conferences are necessary, the following procedures should be followed in order to help promote a resolution to the issue of concern.

If you have a concern to discuss with a coach, please do the following:

1. Call to set up an appointment with your son's baseball coach. The field house number is 325-554-7554, Coach Lavallee's cell number is 325-668-4871.

** 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. Meetings of this nature usually do not promote a resolution.

** Research has shown that a student involved in extracurriclar activities has a greater chance of success during adulthood, therefore, this program will try to prepare your child for the future. Many of the character traits required to be a successful participant in this program are exactly those that will promote a successful life after high school. We hope the information provided makes both your child's and your experience with the Jim Ned Baseball Program less stressful and more enjoyable.