Other parents complaining

[andilynn]

This is my daughters first year and she is at a level 2 "pre team" Our gym just implemented this training program this year and it is the first year for all of the parents at this level. I have been the listening ear to many complaining parents about things that I can't answer because I am just a parent. Most of the time I fake the need to use the bathroom or pretend that my phone is beeping so that I can get away from the complaining. I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions on how to handle parents like this. I for one am thankful that my daughter has this opertunity and nothing the gym has done has been a supprise or something that wasn't in the handbook they gave us (I read if 5 times before singing the contract). So I don't see any reason for complaining, It's just really annoying.

 

[Gymdad2]

Andilynn,

I don't think you need to be making excuses to avoid these people. Just tell them the truth. Say something like, "Gee, I read the contract very carefully before I signed it, and I am completely happy with the way the program is being run". If they don't like your answer, too bad. These types are everywhere and they usually don't stick around very long.

 

[cathiann]

Andilynn,

I don't think you need to be making excuses to avoid these people. Just tell them the truth. Say something like, "Gee, I read the contract very carefully before I signed it, and I am completely happy with the way the program is being run". If they don't like your answer, too bad. These types are everywhere and they usually don't stick around very long.

Totally agree--if nothing else, they know that you won't be a sympathetic ear anymore and you won't have to put up with it.

 

[gym law mom]

Are they all complaining about the same thing or does each parent seem to have a pet peeve? As another poster noted you could mention the team handbook that was given to all and let it go at that. Another suggestion would be to tell the parents it might be more appropriate to take their concerns to the coach/owner and that way maybe they can get correct information.

 

[ZJsMom]

I agree with Gymdad2. Be positive and either they'll realize they're being too negative, or at least realize you're not going to join in and stop dumping on you.

 

[andilynn]

Every parent seems to have a different problem, but it all has to do with boosters. either with slots we have to fill or money we have to earn. I almost feel like it would be rude of me to correct people but maybe it is what needs to happen to get them to stop. They really need to go to the coaches and they seem to be afraid to. Maybe I will try suggesting that

 

[gym law mom]

Every parent seems to have a different problem, but it all has to do with boosters. either with slots we have to fill or money we have to earn. I almost feel like it would be rude of me to correct people but maybe it is what needs to happen to get them to stop. They really need to go to the coaches and they seem to be afraid to. Maybe I will try suggesting that

Ok, know exactly where you're coming from. We've had some negative parents just jump on their team level rep about the booster club(usually right after a booster club meeting). We have told all parents with issues about booster club to come or contact one of the booster club officers. You might suggest that since the coaches are not normally involved in parent obligation for booster club.

 

[Deleted member D3987]

tell them to go out in the gym "and climb the rope then let go?" LOL i love that...

 

[bookworm]

I agree that if they have an issue with the booster club for whatever reason , then it should be addressed with the booster club officers. I'm surprised that at Level 2 that you'd even need any involvement with a booster club (are these people in the same level?) as people in our gym don't become involved with the booster club until they are Level 4 and only if they want to join.

If you can't get them to let up, put in headphones and let them think you are listening to something even if you are not!!

 

[andilynn]

I agree that if they have an issue with the booster club for whatever reason , then it should be addressed with the booster club officers. I'm surprised that at Level 2 that you'd even need any involvement with a booster club (are these people in the same level?) as people in our gym don't become involved with the booster club until they are Level 4 and only if they want to join.

If you can't get them to let up, put in headphones and let them think you are listening to something even if you are not!!

We have a very small involvement compared to the girls who are higher up in levels. Everyone at our gym is required to be in boosters and required to raise a set amount of money as a minimum. yes all of these moms are the same level as us I am thinking that many of them will not be sticking around for next year.

Love the headphones great Idea!

 

[BlairBob]

I've heard one of the benefits of getting them on board at L1 is that they are then prepared as each levels require more commitment time-wise, money, and helping out versus it being all new in L4/5 or even L2/3. Heck, some gyms even compete L1 or have their developmental teams do exhibitions.

 

[CoachTodd]

I agree that if they have an issue with the booster club for whatever reason , then it should be addressed with the booster club officers. I'm surprised that at Level 2 that you'd even need any involvement with a booster club (are these people in the same level?) as people in our gym don't become involved with the booster club until they are Level 4 and only if they want to join.

If you can't get them to let up, put in headphones and let them think you are listening to something even if you are not!!

I've been the parent in the stands as well as the coach. I've seen the whole booster club nut case parents come and go. There really isn't much you can do without addressing it with the booster club and asking them to keep the booster club complaints in the booster club. Technically it is a non-profit organization that is separate from the gym and should be kept that way. I agree with the headphone. Take your I-pod and crank it up. Most of the time the folks that stay unhappy and gripe about political things to do with the gym become gym hoppers until they can find one they like or they just quit.

 

[andilynn]

I've heard one of the benefits of getting them on board at L1 is that they are then prepared as each levels require more commitment time-wise, money, and helping out versus it being all new in L4/5 or even L2/3. Heck, some gyms even compete L1 or have their developmental teams do exhibitions.

We have been having "mock" meets this year in our gym three of them so far and now in the next couple of months we are traveling to three meets. I am thankful for being able to be involved with boosters because it defers the cost on us.