Communications & Expectations

A strong program depends on clear communication, shared expectations, and a respectful game environment.

Our Shared Goal

To create a program where:

Players take ownership

Coaches can coach

Families provide strong, positive support

When we are aligned, we create the best possible experience for every player in the program.

Team Communication Channels

We aim to set clear expectations for how baseball communication will work across players, coaches, and families. With multiple teams, changing schedules, and known transportation challenges, having a simple and consistent system will help everyone stay informed without confusion or overload.

At the core, most baseball communication will continue to happen directly between coaches and players. The Boosters are here to support communication with families, especially when it comes to logistics, but do not replace direct communication from coaches to players. GameChanger is the place for family, friends, and fans to follow game details, including opponent, location, delays, streaming, and play-by-play.

Where to Find Information

Type of Information	Where to Look
Game times, locations	GameChanger
Player practice info	WhatsApp (players only)
General parent info, booster meetings, fundraising	Sunday Booster newsletter (email)
Ad hoc updates affecting the whole team	Emails from Coach
Urgent same-day transportation or schedule changes	Parent WhatsApp (managed by one parent per team in contact with coach)

Game-day Comms for Transportation Issues

The Washburn AD has shared that bussing challenges are expected this spring, which may lead to same-day changes in transportation, game times, or locations. Thank you for your flexibility.

To keep updates timely and streamlined, we are using WhatsApp:

Each team (Varsity, JV, B) will have a parent group
One parent liaison per team will receive updates directly from the coach
The liaison will share updates with all parents/guardians
Groups will include parents/guardians only and will be set up by the Boosters Communication Team

Communication Expectations

Players

Players are expected to take ownership of communication

Reach out directly to coaches with questions, schedule conflicts, or development goals
Attend meetings when requested and come prepared

Parents/Guardians

Supporting players in taking the lead

Support players in taking the lead on communication
Use appropriate channels for logistics and program-wide questions
Avoid direct outreach to coaches about playing time, roles, or in-game decisions, but please do reach out to Head Coach Patrick Shirley if your player is still concerned or confused after they've communicated with their coach

Practice Expectations

Consistency matters. Players are expected to attend all practices unless there is a clear conflict communicated in advance.

If a player needs to miss or leave early:

Communicate directly with the coach ahead of time
Provide a clear reason
Follow up if needed

Playing time and roles are earned through consistency, effort, and reliability. If a player cannot be counted on at practice, it becomes harder to count on them in games.

Game Day Expectations for Families

We are building a positive, focused environment for players. Family support matters and so does how that support shows up.

Please do not:

Visit the dugout during games
Call out instructions or plays from the stands
Engage players in conversation during the game
Yell at umpires or opposing teams

Please do:

Cheer positively for all players
Support effort, teamwork, and sportsmanship
Trust coaches and players to manage the game

Why This Matters

Players perform best in an environment that is:

Focused

Consistent

Respectful

Clear roles and boundaries help players develop confidence, accountability, and resilience.

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