Athletic Program Conflict Resolution Process

Athletic Program Conflict Resolution Process

Athletic involvement, while fun and rewarding, can be very emotional and time consuming. Due to the level of effort and emotion invested, conflicts between coach and player will arise. All conflicts are to be addressed immediately and professionally. The following steps will be used.

FIRST STEP: STUDENT-ATHLETE-COACH CONTACT

The student-athlete will meet individually with the coach to discuss the conflict/issue. It is the student-athlete’s responsibility to make every attempt to meet with the coach before any other people get involved.

Times to be avoided:

• Either immediately prior to or right after a contest

• During an active practice session

• During a time when other students are present or when the discussion is readily visible by others

• When it is apparent that there is not sufficient time to allow for a complete discussion

During those situations a student should set up a time to meet with the coach.

SECOND STEP: PARENT OF STUDENT-ATHLETE-COACH CONTACT

Only after the student-athlete has made every effort to contact the coach should the parent of the student-athlete get involved. The parent will follow the guidelines in First Step. The student-athlete must be present with the parent during the parent-coach meeting.

THIRD STEP: STUDENT/PARENT-ATHLETIC DIRECTOR CONTACT

If a satisfactory resolution is not reached through direct contact with the coach, the student and parent should contact the Athletic Director. The coach must be informed that this contact is going to be made. If a meeting is to take place between the student, parent and athletic director, the coach must be present. Issues concerning coaching personnel may not be publicly communicated. All comments or input about coaching must be put in writing to the attention of the Athletic Director.

FOURTH STEP: STUDENT-PRINCIPAL CONTACT

If a satisfactory resolution has not yet been reached, the student and parent...