North Boys Soccer Coaching-Parent Philosophy
Just a few reminders regarding our philosophy as a coaching staff.
We believe in open communication with each player on our teams. If a player would like to
receive feedback from a coach regarding their strengths/weaknesses as a player and what the
coach's expectations are for that player are, we are happy to have that conversation. We just
ask the boys to choose an appropriate time and place to ask for that conversation. The middle
of a game or practice would not be that time. The conversation should not be simply about
playing time. It should be about what that player needs to improve upon and what they do
well. For all levels of players...playing time is primarily determined at practice. Each player has
the opportunity to compete against and with his peers at practice. From that, coaches make
determinations for starting lineups and what a game substitution pattern may need to look
like. This pattern can vary from game to game depending on several factors. Playing time is
NOT a guarantee for all players. A coach’s strategy during a game is not how to get everybody
into the game. It is to manage the game in an appropriate fashion to enable us the best chance
for success during the game. Players that do not receive regular playing time need to compete
at practice to place themselves in a position to receive the playing time they desire. We keep
on our rosters more players than what most of our competitors do. We don't like to cut though
we have to. We do like to provide players the opportunity for growth in practice and when and
where appropriate within games as well.
Should there be an issue a parent would like to discuss with a coach I would ask first that the
issue be discussed between player and coach. This is part of the maturation process we as
coaches believe is vital for the proper development of a boy to a young man. If following that
conversation there is a need for a parent/coach discussion please let us know but also please
allow for that at an appropriate time and place.
Regarding practice it is true that parental observation at practice is not encouraged. There are
several reasons for this. We have witnessed parents attempt to observe practices and actually
insert themselves into the practice by attempting to communicate in some way to their
child. In some cases the communication has been extremely negative and embarrassing to the
child. In other cases, the presence of the parent provides an unnecessary distraction to the
child or team. When we are together at practice the focus of the team should be between each
other and with the coaches directing practice. If a parent needs to pick up their child please
come down and let us know. If we are near the end of practice (times will vary depending on
space limitations/circumstances) and parents are nearby observing the end of practice that is
not a problem. We appreciate and encourage proper parental support and just ask that it be
directed in a manner that is appropriate
While you may not agree with every decision a coach makes we ask you to respect our
philosophy and process. Each coach has served as a head coach on the varsity level in the past
and has served on the sub varsity level as well. As coaches we strive to help develop your sons
both on the field and off. A positive and proper partnership between coaches and parents can
assist the appropriate development of our young men in multifaceted ways. We ask for your
help in this regard and look forward to a successful and enriching experience.
It also expected that players have made a commitment to attend all games barring an
emergency. Please check our schedule and plan accordingly. If there is a need to miss a practice
for a Dr. appointment or potential family obligation we should be notified of that ahead of
time.
In addition, please understand that referees are going to make mistakes or see things
differently than we do with our inherent bias. I have never seen a referee change a call
because of parents yelling from the stands or sidelines. I have seen referees stop the game and
remove parents from the school grounds causing massive embarrassment to the child. I have
also been asked by referees to address parents myself which is also extremely awkward. I have
also seen referees make calls against teams because of player, coach, or fan behavior. They are
human.
As coaches we know most of the referees. There are some who allow us some leeway in our
communication and some who will shut us down immediately. Sometimes, we as coaches may
decide to push it and draw a card either because we are trying to protect our players or fight
for fairness within the competition. To put it bluntly, this is our place and role and not yours.
Refereeing high school soccer is extremely difficult. Just keep these things in mind during
games. Be a vocal but positive supporter for our teams.
You can always reach us via our school email:
John Simpson jsimpson@nhvweb.net
Steve Delorenzo sdelorenzo@nhvweb.net
Joe Harris jharris@cpsnj.org
Patrick Letourneau pletourneau@nhvweb.net