Freshman year of high school is full of new experiences, unfamiliar environments, and big opportunities. For athletic directors, it’s a chance to set the tone, foster trust, and establish a strong connection between students, their families, and the school. When freshmen and their families feel welcomed and informed, there’s a ripple effect that strengthens the athletic culture year after year.
A Personal Welcome
While most schools host orientation nights, some host athletics-specific welcome events during the summer or early fall. These events help families get acquainted with coaches, captains, and strength staff, while also demonstrating what being part of the program really looks like. It doesn’t need to be formal. Walkthroughs of the weight room or open-houses in the gym work well. This is also a great opportunity to distribute handouts:
- Tryout schedules and practice expectations
- Athletic eligibility and physical requirements
- A calendar of major events and competitions
- Volunteer opportunities and booster club info
Freshmen Mentorship Programs
Freshman athletes are far more likely to buy-in when they feel like they belong. Pairing them with a peer mentor, like an upperclassman who has shown leadership and positivity, makes a huge difference. These mentors are able to:
- Answer questions about practices, games, and school-life balance
- Walk freshmen through daily routines like locker room expectations or pre-game prep
- Model school values like sportsmanship and accountability
Include Parents As Part of the Team
Parents of freshmen may have even more questions than their kids do. This time is critical for creating connections that keep parents in the loop. Focus on delivering simple information that every parent needs to know to support their child, and make sure they know where to go when they have questions. Clear communication turns nervous first-timers into empowered supporters:
- Use preseason welcome emails to outline expectations and key dates
- Create a simple FAQ guide for new athletic families
- Offer short info sessions at parent nights or back-to-school events
Schedules and Time Commitment
One of the biggest challenges for freshman families is adjusting to the demands of high school sports. The more predictable the schedule, the easier it is for families to plan. Be up front about:
- Practice frequency and duration
- Travel and game day commitments
- Expectations for offseason training and strength programs
Celebrate the Start of the Journey
Find ways to make freshmen and their families feel like part of something special from day one. Small moments matter. They reinforce that every athlete is valuable and that families are essential to team culture. This can be as simple as:
- A “Welcome to the Program” social media post highlighting new athletes
- A family tailgate or potluck before the first home game
- Team-issued gear or a keepsake for first-year athletes
Laying the Foundation for Long-Term Engagement
When athletic directors invest early in freshmen and their families, they build confidence, trust, and momentum that lasts for an entire athletic career. A smooth, inclusive transition into high school sports cultivates future leaders, lifelong fans, and stronger schools. It all starts with a simple but powerful message: You belong here, and we’re glad you’re part of the team.
