Ken Martel, technical director of the American Development Model for USA Hockey,
talks about that embarrassing feeling of listening to parents yelling from the stands.
Parent & Coach
Intervention
When you do feel like an intervention with the coach is needed,
consider the following advice:
Don't put the player in the middle
Divided loyalties do not make it easy for
children to do their best. When parents
support a coach, it is much easier for a child to
put their best effort into learning to play well.
If you think your child's coach is not handling
a situation well, do not tell that to your child.
Instead, seek a meeting with the coach in
private to talk to them about it.
Observe a "Cooling Off" Period
Wait to talk to the coach about something
you are upset about for at least 24 hours.
Emotions can sometimes be quite strong in the
heat of the moment. Take a deep breath and
observe a cooling off period to gather your
thoughts and prepare your comments for a
calm conversation with the coach.
www.USAHockeyParents.com
Empowering Your Child to Speak
There are several advantages to having your
children, rather than you, speak directly to
the coach. Many coaches are more open to
suggestions from players than from parents. The
biggest plus is that this can be an empowering
experience for children, even if they don't get
the change they want. Encourage your child to
address the issue with their coach.
Approaching the Coach
If you feel strongly about a situation we suggest
you first gain your composure and know
exactly what you want to say first. Pick a time
and place that is appropriate; for example not
during a game or practice. Opt for a private
conversation where you will not be overheard,
which could make the coach more defensive.
