In the world of sports, there is an extremely important relationship between athletes, their teammates, and their coaches. However, there is also a relationship between coaches and the athlete’s parents. This relationship is vitally important to the well-being of the athlete and their experience on their respective teams. Communication is essential between the athlete’s trainers/coaches and their parents.
As a strength coaching professional, your job is to help athletes improve their performance and confidence. This not only involves the athlete, but also their parents, especially if they are still young enough to have their parents very involved in their sports. Specifically, if an athlete is dealing with rehabbing an injury, or is just preparing for season, parents will often wonder how their athlete is progressing. As a strength professional, it is your duty to explain this process in an understandable and straightforward manner. Be available to answer their questions and think about inviting them to watch a session or two so they see how it works. Give them specifics about how the athlete has improved and a general idea of the plan for their success.
Communication is absolutely essential with parents. If the communication is consistent and efficient, the amount of issues with parents and the athlete’s trainers/coaches should lower significantly.
Taylor Rowden is a Strength Coach at Compete Sports Performance and Rehab in Lake Forest, California. Taylor graduated from the Master’s University with a degree in Kiniesiology with an emphasis on sports injury and exercise science. She was also a member of the Women’s Soccer Team.