Coaching Youth Volleyball? Here’s How to Keep Parents Happy and Supportive
If you’re stepping into a coaching role for the first time, you might be focused on drills, rotations, and game strategy—but don’t overlook one of the biggest factors in your success: parent relationships. Whether you’re coaching a youth team or a middle school or high school squad, parents will have a major impact on your season.
When handled well, parent relationships can make your job easier and create a supportive environment for your players. When mishandled, they can turn into unnecessary stress that drains your energy and affects team morale. So, how do you set the tone for a positive partnership?
1. Establish Clear Communication Early
The best way to prevent problems is to communicate before they start. As soon as possible—ideally before the first practice—set expectations with parents. You can do this through:
A preseason parent meeting (in person or virtual)
A team email or handout outlining key information
A team group chat (using apps like TeamSnap, GroupMe, or WhatsApp)
In this communication, cover:
Your coaching philosophy (Are you development-focused? Competitive? Fun-first?)
Your expectations for attendance, effort, and attitude
How and when parents should reach out with concerns
The 24-hour rule (more on that below!)
2. Use the 24-Hour Rule for Concerns
This is a game-changer. If a parent has an issue—whether it’s about playing time, lineup decisions, or coaching style—ask them to wait 24 hours before bringing it up. This gives both of you time to cool off and prevents emotional, heat-of-the-moment conflicts.
Bonus: If a parent still wants to talk after 24 hours, they’re more likely to be respectful and solution-focused.
3. Be Proactive with Playing Time Conversations
If you’re coaching at a level where playing time isn’t equal, this will be the #1 source of conflict. Get ahead of it by explaining:
How you decide playing time (effort, attitude, skill, game situations, etc.)
That your job is to develop all players, but not everyone will play the same amount
That players (not parents) should come to you if they want to improve their role
If possible, give each player a direct conversation about where they stand, what they’re doing well, and how they can earn more court time.
4. Keep Parents in the Loop (Without Overdoing It)
Parents don’t need to know every detail, but they do appreciate regular updates. Some easy ways to do this:
Send a weekly email or message with upcoming game/practice info and highlights
Share positive moments (e.g., “The team worked hard in practice today!”)
Post photos or shoutouts in a team group chat or social media (if appropriate)
Keeping parents informed prevents confusion and gives them a sense of involvement—without them feeling the need to constantly ask questions.
5. Recognize Their Role (Even If They’re Overinvolved)
Most parents want the best for their kids, even if their approach is... intense. Instead of seeing them as an obstacle, recognize their investment and channel it productively:
Give them specific ways to support the team (e.g., snacks, fundraising, carpooling)
When they have concerns, listen without getting defensive
If needed, redirect their energy toward helping their child improve rather than complaining
6. Make It Clear That the Player Comes First
When parents want to intervene, remind them: your priority is the player's growth—not their comfort.
If a player is struggling, encourage them to come talk to you, not their parent.
If a parent tries to dictate strategy or playing time, remind them that decisions are based on what’s best for the team.
You can say something like:
"I appreciate your input, but I really want to help [Player] take ownership of their experience. I encourage them to come talk to me directly so we can work on this together."
7. End the Season on a Positive Note
Even if you’ve had some tough moments, wrap things up with gratitude:
Thank parents for their support throughout the season.
Recognize how their involvement helped make the team successful.
Highlight each player’s growth, not just wins and losses.
See Parents as Partners, Not Problems
Not every parent will be easy to deal with, but approaching them with clear communication, consistency, and respect will go a long way. If you set boundaries while keeping them involved, you’ll create a much better experience—for yourself, your players, and their families.
And remember: at the end of the day, you’re all on the same team!