In our first podcast episode, we spoke with Glenn Crooks, the former head coach for the women’s soccer team at Rutgers University. Currently, he hosts Coach’s Corner on SiriusXM radio and is a part of the NYCFC broadcast team.
We spoke about a wide range of topics, from the recent United Soccer Coaches Convention to referee programs and more. But in this post, we want to hone in on the importance of involving parents as a coach. As Glenn said, “You need them to be part of the team; you really do. And it took me a while to learn that, but now I have, and my parents very much understand what I’m doing.” So, how does he do it? By educating the parents. Here are three steps he took.
Hold Preseason Meetings
During these meetings, the goal is to help the parents feel comfortable with what you’re doing. For example, if you run pickup games for the kids, explain the value to the parents.
Communicate With the Parents
Communicate with the parents early and often about what’s going on. When the parents understand more about the game, they feel empowered and can understand how to watch the game as a whole, rather than just watch their kid playing.
Post-Game Meetings
One of the standard lines that parents hear is, “You can talk to me, but you can’t talk to me about playing time.” But actually, a more powerful and effective approach is to pay attention to players’ and parents’ faces. If you notice someone seems upset—don’t leave it. Go and speak with the parents or the student; you’ll have already built the relationship from early on.
As Gary said, “Parents are [often] seen as the problem, but without them, you don’t survive as a club and as a coach.” In summary, educate the parents and help them understand what they’re watching. Communicate early and often with them and help them understand what you as the coach are trying to do in terms of teaching their kid and creating a great experience. Communicate with them about all the things you’re doing, whether it’s off the field meetings, team building, or other different things.
To hear more of this conversation, check out the episode on YouTube or your favorite streaming service.