Athletics play a big role in many school communities, including bringing students together, building leadership skills, and strengthening community pride. But keeping athletes and families informed can be a challenge, especially when communication is often spread across different apps, text threads, and social media groups.
Districts are turning to ParentSquare to bring team communication into the same platform used for classroom and district messaging. It’s a practical way to simplify communication, save time, and make sure families never miss an important update.
Here’s how schools and districts across the country are using ParentSquare to support their athletics programs—while keeping everyone in the loop.
1. Keep all team communication in one place
With ParentSquare, districts can set up team-specific groups, assign permissions to coaches, and manage communication across every sport, from middle school volleyball to varsity football. It’s easier for coaches to share updates, and athletic directors can oversee messaging district-wide.
TIP: Coaches don’t need to be in the student information system to use ParentSquare. Admins can add them as staff or guests to get started.
2. Reach every family in their language, on their terms
Automatic translation into 190+ languages and delivery via text, email, app, and voice makes it easier to connect with every family. Coaches can send one message and know it will reach families in the format and language they prefer.
TIP: Encourage families to review their notification settings so they can choose how, and how often, they want to hear from the team.
3. Share schedules, reminders, and updates without switching platforms
Coaches can share practice schedules, post last-minute changes, and manage RSVPs right in ParentSquare. Families get team updates in the same place they already check for school news, making it one less app to track.
“Our coaches now use Virtual Phone within the platform, allowing them to communicate quickly and safely from the field or court.”
– Emily Worrell, Director of Communications and Marketing, Wawasee Community School Corporation
4. Send real-time updates with direct messaging
From schedule changes to transportation updates, coaches can send direct messages to individuals, small groups, or the full team. Messages are delivered instantly and don’t get lost in a group thread.
TIP: Direct messages work like BCC in email: recipients can reply directly, but they won’t see each other’s responses.
5. Provide transparency and peace of mind
With ParentSquare, coaches don’t need to use personal numbers to connect with families. Every message is visible to admins when needed, providing a clear record and helping districts meet oversight or compliance requirements.
“Before ParentSquare, it was difficult for coaches to contact players and families on different platforms. As a part of state compliance, we have to keep records of all conversations, which was difficult on multiple apps, and there was a lack of visibility for the district. Coaches now have peace of mind that they’re using a school-approved platform that tracks all communications.”
– Kevin Yeckley, Athletic Director, Lakota Local Schools
6. Make it easy for parents to participate and support
ParentSquare helps coaches organize snack sign-ups, volunteer needs, and carpool logistics—all in one place. Teams can also collect payments for uniforms or gear using ParentSquare Pay, without relying on paper forms or separate tools.
TIP: Direct messages work like BCC in email: recipients can reply directly, but they won’t see each other’s responses.
7. Include your broader community
ParentSquare Community Groups make it easy to include alumni, booster clubs, and other supporters in athletics updates. Community members can sign up for relevant groups and stay connected all season long.
TIP: Show off your athletics program using ParentSquare Smart Sites, with automatic updates for schedules, highlights, and news.
8. Celebrate wins and build school pride
Coaches can post photos, highlights, and game-day moments to recognize student athletes and share team pride. Whether it’s a tournament win or a season wrap-up, it’s easy to spotlight what makes each team unique.
“Communication is such a vital part of any successful football program. During the season, I use ParentSquare almost daily to post practice messages and updates for kids and families. I also send direct messages to athletes—sometimes individuals, sometimes small groups. It’s been a game changer.”
– Rob Senor, Football Coach, Orange City Schools
One platform for everything athletics—and more
Bringing athletics into the same communication platform used for school and district messaging helps everyone stay connected. Coaches spend less time managing tools, families stay informed, and districts have better visibility into what’s being shared.
Want to see more ways ParentSquare supports your athletics program? Download A Coach’s Guide to Winning Team Communication or schedule a demo to learn more.
