Navigating Youth Sports: A Parent's Guide to Coach Communication & Involvement

Question
As a parent of a 13 year old, how is it best to survive the next 6 years of middle school, high school and tourney baseball as a parent in regard to Coaches.  I find some Coaches say one thing and do another.  As a parent, how much involvement should their be, and is their such a thing as "Coaches Talk"?  Should a parent be more concerned about Coaches actions, rather than what they say?

Answer
Nancy,
Coaches should do as they say and say what they do.  A coach who contradicts himself is not an affective coach.  As your son gets older you may see yourself becoming less involved as he needs to take on more responsibility.  If you or your son is uncomfortable with a certain coach they you should find a new team or talk to someone who is above the coach like a league director.

Thank you,
John Priest