A Concerned Parent

123 Main Street

Penticton, British Columbia,

V2A 3W1

June 1, 2011

Mr. Kleats

Physical Education Teacher

120 Geen Avenue,

Penticton, British Columbia

V2A 3W1

Dear Mr. Kleats

My name is Al Caholic, and I am a concerned parent of one of an athlete on your basketball team, Myal. Myal has raised a few things to my attention that I feel should be addressed. I understand that the time commitment in being a coach is very significant, and time can be an issue. Stress levels can be raised immensely, especially when so much is expected of you. When things aren't going as planned, it's essential to make sure you maintain your composure; the kids look up to you, and I they learn from example. If there is one thing that I have learned from being a psychiatrist, it's that "if you want a message to get across to someone, do so tranquilly." You'll be amazed with the response you get.

Being a public school, the kids don't expect to win every game they play. They're there to have fun and to learn the sport; so please don't feel pressured to play the more adept children to raise likelihood of victory. I understand that there are a few kids, including my son, who aren't the most tenacious or sure-footed on the team. They aren't receiving an adequate amount of attention in order to progress to, one day, university level ball. Perhaps if you had an assistant coach to help you to structure a more rooted practice, the kids would feel more confident in games. If it is possible, I would like you to reconsider the playing time to each child though. It can be arduous to keep everyone happy on the team, but if you could attempt to make an effort, it would be appreciated by many.

I've always taught my son to practice punctuality, as a form of both respect, and responsibility. Please respect the children Mr. Kleats; I understand you're very busy, but maybe if you were to consider having an assistant coach, this issue would be dissolved. I would like to offer my time in being the assistant coach if there is no one able to fulfil the position. I have fairly fit arms and shoulders, so I'm sure i could toss a ball around for the kids and organize some drills before you arrive. This way, if you need to talk about something with a kid specifically, you can take them aside and discuss it privately, while I continue instructing the drills. I hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely,

Al Caholic.