When a parent, coach, or team parent feels that there is a problem that needs to be addressed in the team:
- Check with the youth athlete and see if he/she agrees.
- Check it out with other adults for an objective opinion.
- Wait until you feel calm and in control of your feelings and thoughts before communicating your anger or frustration. People are less likely to listen to, and address, the concerns of individuals who are in the midst of emotional angst. And you certainly want to be listened to!
- If you still feel like you are getting nowhere, see if there are others who share your concern and then band together to communicate as a group.
- If all else fails, respectfully communicate your concerns to those who are higher in the organizational chain. You may want to consider writing your thoughts so that they are clear, rational, and documented.
- Finally, if nothing seems to work, reconsider the value of keeping your child on that particular team. It may be healthier to make a change.
