GUIDE

Sports Team Handbook Guide

Running a sports team is exciting, but requires a lot of work. Use this sports team handbook guide to help you keep everyone on the same page!

Download the Guide

What to expect and what's included:

Welcome Letter & Team Overview

Set the stage with an opening letter and overview of your business and the team.

Team Expectations

Outline your team expectations for practices, competitions, and other team obligations throughout the season.

Codes of Conduct

Set clear guidelines for how athletes, parents, and coaches are expected to behave at team functions, ensuring accountability amongst all parties.

Frequently Asked Questions about Managing Sports Teams

What is a sports team handbook?

A sports team handbook is a comprehensive guide designed to outline the expectations, policies, and procedures of a sports team. It serves as a key resource for coaches, players, and parents, ensuring everyone is aligned with the team’s goals, behavioral standards, and operational protocols. This handbook typically includes information on team philosophy, codes of conduct, practice schedules, competition guidelines, communication procedures, and disciplinary actions, among other essential topics.

A sports team handbook is crucial for establishing a clear framework within which the team operates. It helps in:

  • Setting clear expectations: Ensuring all team members understand what is expected of them in terms of behavior, attendance, and performance.
  • Enhancing communication: Providing a go-to reference for parents, players, and staff on how and when communication will occur.
  • Resolving conflicts: Offering predefined procedures for handling disputes or disciplinary issues, ensuring fairness and consistency.
  • Building team culture: Helping to foster a positive and inclusive team environment that supports the development of athletes both on and off the field.

While the content of your sports team handbook may vary based on the sports and level of play, here are some common sections:

  • Welcome Letter: A personal message from the coach or team leader to welcome team members and set the tone for the season.
  • Team Philosophy and Objectives: The core values, mission, and vision of your business and team.
  • About the Team: Background information about the team or club, including its history, mission, and core values.
  • Operational Procedures: Detailed guidelines on practices, games, travel plans, and other logistics.
  • Code of Conduct: Expectations for behavior on and off the field, including disciplinary actions for violations.
  • Health and Safety Protocols: Protocols for ensuring the safety and well-being of athletes, including procedures for handling injuries and adverse weather conditions.
  • Team Expectations: Detailed expectations for athletes, including attendance, participation, behavior, and sportsmanship.
  • Communication Policies: Guidelines on how team members should communicate with each other and external parties.
  • Financial Policies: Information on dues, fundraising activities, and budget management.
  • Schedules and Procedures: Information on practice and game schedules, attendance policies, weather policies, and communication protocols.
  • Uniforms and Equipment: Guidelines on team uniforms, how to care for them, and any additional gear required.

In addition to a sports team handbook, consider leveraging the following resources:

  • Coaching Clinics and Certifications: To enhance coaching skills and learn new techniques and strategies.
  • Parent and Player Workshops: Focused on topics such as sportsmanship, teamwork, and health and nutrition.
  • Online Management Tools: For scheduling, communication, and team management, apps like Upper Hand can be incredibly useful.
  • First Aid and Safety Training: Ensuring all coaches and volunteers are prepared for any injuries or health issues that may arise.
  • Networking with Other Coaches: Joining local or national coaching organizations to share experiences, strategies, and advice.

Be Sure to Check out these Additional Resources