parents & booster clubs

​Parents are often the biggest advocates for their own children.  When it comes to high school athletics today, parents are everywhere.  You can’t ignore them.  You can’t pass them off.  And it doesn’t work well to engage in fighting with them. 
Some key points to consider when dealing with parents:
  • Communication is key
    • Remember, parents are trying their best to be an advocate for their child.  One of the most important assets of a successful athletic director is his/her communication skills. 
  • Be open, honest, and clear
    • It’s never too early to let parents know where you stand.  It can be a good practice to encourage parents to talk face-to face when an issue arises.
  • Parent night meeting
    • This is a good way to establish communication, detail procedures, and explain the chain of command.
  • Relationships
    • It is good to differentiate the factors that lead to the positive relationships with parents, as well as the ones that lead to negative relationships. 

Booster Clubs can be an integral part of a school’s athletic department.  Working with Boosters and educating them on compliance is important in the development of a positive working relationship.
Here are some items to consider when communicating with Booster Clubs:
  • What is the makeup of the membership?  How are members selected? How can others join?
  • How do you communicate ASB requirements to clubs?
  • Education on role of Boosters
  • Education on fundraising
  • Resources for Athletic Directors
Resources for Athletic Directors