High School New coach HELP!!

[Gatorcoach]

I have a cheerleader that is always complaining. "I'm always in the back, the coach isn't fair, she has favorites, etc". She is going so far as to complain to the principal. And now I'm being pulled into the office and constantly drilled about things she is complaining about. I love being the new cheer coach but I'm wearing thin already. How do I deal with this?

 

[CoachJamie]

Hello I have been coaching for 17 years and I can tell you there is always someone that is going to complain. I have had this issue many times in the past. The way that I have handled it was to talk to the team as a whole. I wouldn't speak directly to that one person alone this way they all get the same message. I would explain that everyone is valuable to the team and every spot is important. Judges look at every spot not just the front. Also when making spots for the routine you can not travel across the the whole mat to your next spot so the same people may be in the front or back, left or right for the majority of the routine. (i got that tip from a judge) Also the reality of it is some athletes have stronger skills then others and that is just how it is. If someone has strong jumps they should be towards the front or middle for jumps. If someone has stronger tumbling they should be showcased in the front. This is a team sport so everyone is needed and important but those who are more advanced in certain skills should be highlighted. That is part of the sport. After talking to the team I would maybe explain this to the parents as well. If they have concerns past that just tell them that you can not think of one athlete and their wants you have to think about the whole team and what is best for everyone. Not everyone can be in the front, there is a whole mat to fill. If the athlete takes it to the principal I would again explain that there are certain things that need to be checked off when making a routine and you have to give the team a chance to win otherwise you are setting them up to fail just to please one person. There shouldn't be favoritism based on who you like or don't like. I have had kids that were difficult with their attitudes but i would still highlight their skills. Again it is about the team not the individual person. I know this is a lot and may be hard to express but this is just how I have handled it in the past. If you have any other questions let me know. I'm happy to help!