Conflict Resolution

Communication concerning SMCHS athletic programs and personnel are welcomed when motivated by a sincere desire to improve the quality of an athletic program and/or an athlete’s participation therein. There are situations that may require a conference between the coach, athlete, and the parent. When these conferences are necessary, please adhere to the following SMCHS athletic communication protocol to resolve the concern:

1. Athlete-Coach: To empower our athletes to learn personal responsibility, they must communicate their concerns/questions directly to their coach before having someone else do this for them. Every effort should be made to resolve the problem at this level.
2. Athlete-Coach-Parent: If an issue still needs to be resolved after step 1, the athlete and parent(s) or legal guardian(s) should email and set up an appointment with the coach. Communication with a coach regarding a concern should never take place at or immediately after a game or event.
3. Athlete-Coach-Parent-Athletic Director: If an issue still needs to be resolved after step 2, the Athletic Director will set up a meeting with all those involved.

Please note that since the athlete and coach are the only two people who work together on a daily basis, both should be included in all communications. Remember that playing time and level or position placement are the sole responsibility and discretion of the coach.

After following steps 1-3, any unresolved issues can be referred to the Assistant Principal of Athletics and Principal by submitting an email “statement of concern” (S.O.C). This S.O.C. must include the following: name of coach, specific sport and level of competition, general athletic concern involved, and brief but specific summary of the nature of the issue and the facts surrounding same. Once the completed S.O.C. is received by the administrator in charge of athletics, a meeting including all parties involved will be scheduled for the purpose of resolving the issue.

Any calls or inquiries made directly to administrators will be referred back through this SMCHS' communication protocol, unless issues of legality or morality are involved.