The procedure for discussing concerns regarding club policies or actions is as follows:

1. The athlete should first speak with the coach regarding the matter.

2. If the matter remains unresolved and a legitimate concern still exists, the parent and athlete should request a meeting with the coach. Coaches will only meet with parents when the athlete is present, and never at a tournament.

3. Please do not confront a coach before, during, or after an event. Please arrange a meeting with your coach at a convenient time for all parties.

4. If a parent approaches a coach during a tournament, our coaches have been instructed to politely decline the discussion, refer the parent to a club director, and walk away.

5. We also instruct our coaches not to engage in lengthy text conversations unless it is a simple matter that can be easily resolved.

6. If the matter remains unresolved, the parent may request a meeting with the club director, the coach, and the athlete. The athlete must be present at the meeting.

It is important that athletes and parents alike understand that communication with a coach is encouraged throughout the season, provided it is civil and respectful. However, when concerns arise, we ask that everyone take the time to approach the discussion calmly and rationally before meeting.

Parenting and coaching are important, complementary vocations, and by working together we are able to better serve our athletes. As our athletes begin transitioning into adulthood, one of our goals is to help them become responsible for their own actions and communication.

Communication Coaches Expect from Parents and Athletes 

Advance notice of any schedule conflicts. Ideally this should be on SportsYou, email or text to the head coach so that it is recorded. “Advanced” means >2 weeks before a tournament and >1 week before a practice. 

Rationale: Tournaments require roster registration be finalized at least a week or greater prior to the event. Finding a substitute player and legally adding her to the roster is not always feasible depending on the event. Clear communication of attendance is expected. 

Coaches create practice plans prior to practices based on the planned attendance. Communication less than a week before practice disrupts the coach’s plans and the team’s practice session.

Willingness to discuss specific concerns. Coaches may not be aware of a conflict occurring on a team. Coaches want to hear concerns or issues so that conflict resolution can occur in a healthy manner. Conversely, if the coach is aware of a conflict or concern, they will discuss this with the athlete in a direct and honest manner.

Volleyball is not a sport that guarantees equal playing time due to the nature of the game and the specialized roles each athlete fulfills. Each position—such as setter, libero, middle blocker, and outside hitter—has specific responsibilities and enters and exits the game at different times based on rotations, substitutions, and strategic decisions. Similar to football, where players are substituted based on offensive, defensive, or special teams roles, volleyball requires coaches to make decisions that best support team performance in each moment.

Just as the human body is made up of many different parts, each with its own unique function, a volleyball team is made up of athletes with different skills and responsibilities. A body cannot function if it is made up entirely of eyes or entirely of feet. Likewise, a volleyball team cannot function if it is made up entirely of outside hitters or entirely of setters. Every position has value, and every athlete plays an important role in the success of the team. As a result, playing time is not equal across all the players, because it is impossible. 

Playing time may be held if an athlete’s attitude, teamness and effort are lacking. Playing time may also be held if there are excessively missed practices. Missing numerous practices tells the coach and team that the athlete is not committed and giving priority to the team.