| RANCHO TSUNAMI WPC "ATHLETIC TRIANGLE" |
"THE ATHLETIC TRIANGLE"
A successful athletic program, must have mutual understanding and cooperation among parents, athletes, and coaches. An athlete’s progress depends to a great extent on this relationship. Sports psychologists and youth sports professionals call this relationship the “Athletic Triangle.” Each individual in this triangular relationship plays an essential role in the success of the athletes endeavor. Therefore, it is important for the parent, athlete, and coach to understand and fulfill their distinctive roles in order to achieve the highest possible level of success. The apex of the three roles is a creation of an environment that allows the athlete “To Be The Best They Can Be”.
| RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE "ATHLETIC TRIANGLE" |
PERFORM
Learn to take responsibility for your performance.
GOALS
Set attainable goals & maintain a commitment level that is consistent with reaching these goals.
CONNECT
Communicate with coach, teammates, and parents thoroughly and punctually.
HEALTH
Eat a well-balanced diet by maintaining proper fluid intake and following nutrition guidelines.
ENJOY
Have fun, take pride in your efforts, and become as good as you want to be.
| TRAINING & COMPETING |
The coaching staff is committed to staying engaged with the water polo world. In addition to bringing their playing experience, each coach is actively looking for new training techniques, drills, strategies, and game play. They are dedicated to incorporating new knowledge into daily practices and training. Coaches are responsible for practice and competition, schedule based on teams competitive level on long term club goals. Trust your coaches! The best interest of each athlete is considered in every decesion.
| MEETING W/ ATHLETES & PARENTS |
The coaching staff is available to meet with any athlete and/or parents to discuss questions or concerns about that athlete’s performance. Each coach has an approach behind the training regimen within their team(s); they are availablel to share that information upon request. In all areas of athlete conduct and discipline, the coach is the final authority. If any issue arises during practice, tournaments, or game play, please wait until its completion to discuss with the coach. Coaches can be contacted in advance and meetings can be scheduled at mutually convenient times.
| MEETING W/ ATHLETES & PARENTS |
Competitive athletic programs provide many benefits to young athletes including self-discipline, good sportsmanship, time management skills, and good health. As a parent, your role is to provide a consistent, loving, and supportive environment that allows your athlete to enjoy their successes and learn from failures. This positive environment will encourage your athlete to continue their participation in athletics. They need to know that your support is unconditional. Show your interest by supporting your athlete's commitment to practices, attending competitions, and engaging in other key parental roles.
| GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS |
Parents are welcome to attend the final 30 minutes of each practice session. Please observe practices from the bleachers and keep in mind the following: The practice session is a learning situation and the athlete needs to be able to concentrate. Please stay clear of the immediate practice area and do not talk to your child during practice. Coaches have a plan for every practice and may emphasize some aspects to the exclusion of others. Let the coaches coach! Avoid analyzing your child’s practice performance or instructing your athlete. When a coach is coaching please do not interfere. If you wish to speak to the coach, please contact them before or after scheduled practices. Please have your athlete at practice on time (or early) and pick them up 10-15 minutes after the conclusion of practice. Communicate in advance any circumstances that may your athletes abilty to practice or be on time.
| RESOLVING PROBLEMS WITH COACHES |
One of the traditional communication flaws in team sports is that some parents feel more comfortable discussing their disagreements over coaching philosophies with other parents rather than taking them directly to the coach. Not only is the problem never resolved, but it often, results in new problems being created. Listed below are guidelines for parents addressing difficult issues with a coach:
· Remember every coach is committed to this sport and has your child’s best interest and goals in mind!
· Trust the coach’s approach! You will have better rapport and are more likely to engage in constructive dialogue.
· Remember that the coach must balance your perspective of what is best for your athlete with the needs of the team.
· Do not be a soundboard! Encourage other parents to address complaints directly with the coach.
· When contacting coaches, please address away from scheduled practice times.