This resource stems from a question submitted to the Ask PCA blog. Responses come from our experts including PCA Trainers, who lead live group workshops for coaches, parents, administrators and student-athletes.

"I’m a new varsity high school coach, just one year out of college myself. What can I do to pre-empt or address any concerns that players or their parents may have about my being so young?”

PCA Response By Ray Lokar, PCA Trainer – Los Angeles
It's great to take a proactive approach to establishing confidence in the program you are trying to build. The first step is to have a Parent Meeting and set an agenda to address questions and concerns up front.

As a young coach, take extra care to have a concise coaching philosophy, one that does not try to sound like you have the wisdom of the ages, when anyone can see that you don't. Define two or three things you want your program to be known for, and be prepared to explain HOW you will pursue those aims.

That can go a long way toward establishing initial confidence among the parents. They will see that your preparation compensates for your youth and inexperience.

Finally, try to bring in staff to help you. It may be hard to delegate when you perceive that one of your challenges is establishing control of the program, but you'll be glad you did. It also couldn't hurt if one of your assistants was a little older to balance against your youth.

Take your youth and enthusiasm and use it as an advantage. Be yourself and don't try to be "older" because you think that's what parents want.

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