The Home Team at a Hotel

When the team is spending a night or two together in a hotel, it gives them a chance to build their friendships. Good communication is good for teamwork on the court or field, and it’s just plain fun. If the hotel has a pool and other amenities, the young folks will have a chance to relax and enjoy themselves before the big game.

A number of good-natured chaperones will make the team travel more positive. Chaperones need to be able to have a sense of humor, but one that is too lenient might not be able to keep trouble at bay. The last thing you need is damage to the hotel or a bad reputation when you arrive at the game. Having plenty of adults along minimizes the risk of problems at the motel or elsewhere.

Another good idea when planning team travel is to write out the rules and expectations ahead of time. Distribute them to players and parents before the trip. After you get to the hotel is too late. Address potential problems and agree on the consequences for inappropriate behavior or taking safety risks. Decide who pays the bill if a team member has to be expelled from the team and flown home.

Provide a copy of the rules that can be signed by everyone involved, stating they understand the consequences of misbehavior, and they agree to abide by the rules. Chaperones need to know what is expected of them just like the players do. Make sure they are informed and sign to uphold the rules. Know the motel or hotel rules, too.

Travel these days is costly, and there are sometimes hidden fees when booking or canceling hotel or motel rooms. It might be appropriate for the team to have travel insurance in the event of unforeseen delays or cancellations.

A team of young people can be rowdy and noisy so that they are objectionable to other guests staying in the hotel. It works best for the team to be lodged on the ground level so they are not blocking traffic on stairways. It is also best if their rooms can be located in one area. This keeps team members from traipsing all over the hotel looking for teammates. Ask for these conditions when making reservations.

In addition to planning for behavior consequences, it’s also smart to plan ahead for emergencies, such as illnesses or even storms. Set up a cell phone chain for getting information to the head coach and chaperone. Know everyone’s hotel room numbers. Discuss fire safety at the hotel, and design a course of action in the event of an emergency.

Be sure your team is on time for games or competitions. Get everyone up with a knock on the door as well as a wake up call. Make sure the hotel’s call comes early enough for them to get ready. Then, meet with plenty of time to get where you need to be early. Always allow more time than you think you’ll need.

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