Take some time to discuss the letter and answer any concerns. This is an important first step in establishing a good relationship with the parents. Below is a sample letter and topics to cover at your parent meeting.

Thank you for providing me the opportunity to help develop your child's baseball skills, knowledge and sportsmanship. I want to convey to you my personal coaching and managing philosophy and my goals for both your child and the team.

I think we all have different expectations for the season and for each of our children. Personally, I aim to provide everyone the most positive experience possible. Please compare the following information to that of your expectations and let me know if there are gaps or issues.

My Coaching Philosophy

• I strive to provide nothing but positive feedback, nothing negative. I believe that the best development environment for children is through positive reinforcement from parents, coaches, and other players. Kids develop at varying rates, but the total experience can be equally rewarding.

• It is important for a coach to demonstrate equal interest in all the players. I try to work with and connect with each player individually during practice. It is my goal to let them know I care about their development and that it is through their effort they will grow.

• I believe that practices should be fun and able to hold the kid's attention while providing sound skill development. My intentions are to hold crisp and organized practices that are efficient. Kids will not be standing around waiting for Ôtheir turn' to bat or take infield. The intent is to keep the kids active and participating as much as possible during practices and games.

• As important as skill development is, so is knowledge of the game. I will ensure the kids are learning more than they knew when they entered the season. This includes rules, strategy, and team play.

• Sportsmanship is also an important aspect of the game. This starts with respecting teammates and extends into games. The kids will be reminded to maintain composure and be positive toward both their teammates and their opponents.

• The desire to win is present in nearly any athlete, and the goal of nearly any competition. A win can be the outcome of a game, but it is not mandatory. In other words, we will strive to be as competitive as possible through good, sound practices and skill development. I will not focus on how "we need to win". Winning and losing is part of the game, and kids need to learn how to handle both results.

• The fundamentals and skills will be covered during practice. I will see that they are coached during this time. However, during the game it is the players on the field that will make a play. If strategic direction will improve a player's performance, I will see that they receive it. However, I aim for them to enjoy the game and have fun. I will always find a silver lining in what they did and will not focus on what they did wrong. Effort is what I am looking for, not an errorless game. Your kids are still developing, they will make errors.

• Develop the skills needed to advance to the next level of play.
• Teach the kids new knowledge about the game.
• Emphasize teamwork and sportsmanship.
• Provide positive reinforcement based on effort.
• Provide a safe and healthy environment for all the kids on the team.

Team Rules
The only team rules we will have are to abide by three things:

• Trust
• Unity
• Respect

• Have fun!
• Show respect for coaches and other players.
• Give your best effort.
• Our time is limited, so practice as often as possible outside of our practices.

• Please have your child arrive to practice on time. If you know your child will be late or won't be able to make it to a practice or game, please let me know in advance if possible.
• Help out with team volunteer opportunities. This league is all-volunteer, and there are fundraising and events that I'll need your help pulling off.
• On days we don't practice, play baseball with your child (catch, whiffle ball, etc
• Encourage good sportsmanship by showing your child and others exactly what that means. Positive support for all players from both teams, coaches, and umpires at all game. Cheer for your child, but don't shout instructions to them. This is their time to be Ôcoached' and their opportunity to play the game.
• Talk to me immediately if you are experiencing a problem with me or are having another issue. I need to know right away so that the issue may be corrected.
• Safety is paramount, so if you see a situation unfolding that you think is a safety concern, please step in and take action.

Best Regards,

Name