In this module I will be sharing everything I have learned in 2 decades of coaching to get parents to be my greatest supporters instead of detractors, including: goal setting, parent education tips, giving parents a helpful role, keys to good communication, and more. You will be able to start developing a more positive, constructive parent group immediately, so you can get back to coaching the kids instead of managing moms and dads![/text_block][/op_liveeditor_element]

Setting the expectations for your team, from your coaching philosophy to the expectations for playing time, positions, the role of the parents, winning vs development, etc is a crucial first step in getting the parent son your side. In this video I outline the components of a successful preseason meeting, how to give consistent feedback, conduct player evaluations, do goal setting, and more.[/text_block][/op_liveeditor_element]

If you want to make parents your allies, than the most important thing to do is serve their kids on and off the field. When a parent knows you are fully invested in a child, instead of simply using them to pursue your own glory and stoke your own ego, they will give you the benefit of the doubt more often than not.[/text_block][/op_liveeditor_element]

Communicating with your team parents before, during and after the season is critically important. Letting them know not only what you are doing, but why it is being done and how they can help is a great way to get them focused on the right things, and not distracted by the wrong ones.[/text_block][/op_liveeditor_element]

Goal setting for both players and parents helps to get them on the same page with each other, as well as getting you on the same page as your players. Having parents complete a goal setting form can be a real eye opener. Asking them what their expectations are for the season before it starts can help you head off trouble![/text_block][/op_liveeditor_element]

Yes, I know this might sound nuts, but sometimes when all else fails, giving a parent a role that forces him/her to focus on the whole team, instead of just their own, can finally get them to take a deep breath and see the big picture.[/text_block][/op_liveeditor_element]

Sometimes, no matter what you do as a coach, you will still have issues and conflicts with certain parents. In this interview, professional mediator and conflict resolution expert Ruth Nicholson shares her process for dealing with conflict and (hopefully) coming to a solution that benefits the all involved.[/text_block][/op_liveeditor_element]