Responsibilities

• Learn and know the rules of the game. Strive to continuously improve as coach, instructor and role model. Youth coaches should look to prepare their players for the next level of play.
• Tell the parents what you expect of them and their children - punctuality, cooperation, courtesy and effort.
• Each team's parents share a different chemistry. Build a supportive network by encouraging parents to attend games/practices whenever possible.
• Provide schedules (both practice and game) as well in advance as possible. Provide accurate directions, arrange departure times, and safe transportation when travel is involved.
• Travel and select coaches should keep accurate records of all expenses. When parents are asked to contribute over and above normal WSYAA dues, a preseason team meeting to discuss pertinent issues is suggested. Since there is a higher level of commitment from all parties involved, that commitment should be discussed as well.
• Multi-sport athletes are a reality. WSYAA encourages young athletes to experience as many sports as they can handle. For youths under the age of 14, WSYAA does not believe a child should be asked to choose one sport over another. League schedules between sports overlap. Often players are committed to two teams at the same time. Coaches need to remember why the athletes are there in the first place and be guided accordingly. Good communication between two coaches in this situation won't solve every conflict, but can make a difficult situation much easier. Compromise is the guiding principal. Consult your commissioner if you have questions.
• Assess playing conditions (weather, field conditions, equipment, etc.) making your team's safety a priority.
• Distribute uniforms, equipment and WSYAA information to your team on a timely basis.

Practice Schedules

• Be consistent with your practice schedule to eliminate conflict and confusion.
• Insist on punctuality and stress it with your parents and players. One of the most important concepts you can instill in your players is discipline; in sports that begins with getting to practice on time. Set an example. Get to practices early and have all practices planned out in advance. End practices on time.
• Come prepared, not only with a practice plan, but with all the necessary equipment as well. WSYAA recommends that coaches have an assistant coach or parent volunteer at all games and practices.

Be a Positive Role Model

• When you must discipline your players, be consistent and fair. Be supportive and praise your player's accomplishments, effort and attitude. Criticism should be constructive -- remember they are children. Where possible, praise in public and criticize in private. Encouragement works best.
• Do not talk ill of other coaches, players or officials.
• Dress appropriately. No torn jeans, cut-off sleeves, etc. Do not take off your shirt on the sidelines to cool off. Clothing should not contain obscene sayings, pictures or slogans.
• You are a representative of WSYAA and should conduct yourself accordingly.