At Mariner Jr Football, our goal is to provide a positive, rewarding experience for every athlete. We strive to build character, sportsmanship, and confidence through competition, teamwork, and fun.

Strong communication between parents, coaches, and players is essential to that experience. The following guidelines are designed to support clear expectations and respectful relationships for everyone involved.

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Mutual Expectations

All participants—parents, coaches, players, officials, and spectators—are expected to treat one another with respect at all times.

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What Parents Can Expect From Coaches

• Clear communication of team philosophy and goals

• Expectations for each athlete

• Practice and game schedules (times and locations)

• Team requirements (equipment, events, etc.)

• Codes of conduct and discipline policies

• Information regarding responsibility for lost or damaged equipment

 

 

What Coaches Expect From Parents

• Communication of any medical conditions or special concerns

• Advance notice of scheduling conflicts or absences

• Timely and respectful communication

• Concerns expressed calmly and directly

• Specific feedback rather than general frustrations

 

 

Coaching Decisions

The following areas are the responsibility of the coaching staff:

• Playing time

• Team strategy and play-calling

• Decisions involving other athletes

Coaches are volunteers who dedicate significant time and energy to the team. While questions are welcome, it’s important to recognize that decisions are made with the full team in mind.

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Appropriate Topics to Discuss With Coaches

• Your child’s physical or emotional well-being

• Ways to support your athlete’s development

• Concerns about your child’s behavior or experience

 

 

How to Address a Concern

1. Player First
   Whenever appropriate, athletes are encouraged to speak directly with their coach.

2. Parent Contact
   If needed, parents should contact the coach to discuss the concern.
   Please allow 24–48 hours for a response.

3. Appropriate Timing
   Do not approach coaches before, during, or immediately after games or practices. These are busy and emotional times.

4. Next Step
   If the issue is not resolved, please contact a board member.

5. Final Step
   If needed, reach out to the program President or Vice President for further review.

 

 

Positive Parent Guidelines

• Remember this is youth sports—development and fun come first

• Support the team, not just your individual athlete

• Allow coaches to coach—avoid giving sideline instructions

• Be a positive role model in words and behavior

• Give athletes space after games to process their experience

• Focus on effort, growth, and teamwork over results

• Help reduce pressure, not add to it

• Trust the process—every season will have both successes and challenges

 

 

Final Thought

Athletics provide opportunities for growth through both success and adversity. Our goal is to create an environment where athletes learn discipline, teamwork, and resilience—while enjoying the game.

When parents, coaches, and players work together with respect and clear communication, everyone benefits.