When people think about high school sports, they usually picture only the players on the field and the coaches on the sidelines. But for Miami Palmetto Senior High’s lacrosse teams, a whole group works behind the scenes to keep everything running: parent volunteers.
For parent Elyssa Lewis, her involvement in the background stemmed simply from her son’s involvement on the team. Yet, her prior experience with school organizations made stepping into the role feel natural.
“I was president of the drama booster club … and PTSA president for three years,” Lewis said. “When my younger son started playing lacrosse, I thought I would get involved with his team.”
Game days for parent volunteers are anything but simple. Lewis explained that preparation begins long before the whistle blows.
“Our typical game day starts with communicating with parents and players on TeamSnap,” Lewis said. “For home games, we show up an hour early, make sure referees are paid and get everything set. For away games, we meet the bus and sometimes even organize meals for the boys.”
Another parent volunteer, Ileana Cohn, described her routine as similar, but with additional responsibilities.
“We come about 30 minutes early to set up the camera to livestream games,” Cohn said. “I also run the scoreboard and coordinate snacks and drinks.”
Many of the responsibilities handled by parents often go unnoticed; Cohn revealed that even team equipment is managed behind the scenes.
“We actually store the uniforms in my house,” Cohn said. “After the season, we wash, sort and label everything.”
Funding is also a major part of their role. Unlike some other school sports, lacrosse relies heavily on fundraising to provide for each season.
“One of the main things people don’t realize is that we are a self-funded team,” Lewis said. “We have to do significant fundraising to cover costs.”
Despite the effort it requires, both volunteers believe the experience is rewarding. For Cohn, one standout moment came from something as simple as food.
“I surprised the team with Raising Cane’s after a game, and they were so excited,” Cohn said. “It’s just about making them happy and feeling appreciated.”
Parent involvement plays a huge role in team morale. From organizing snacks to cheering in the stands, their presence creates a sense of community.
“You’re more likely to be involved when you’re investing in it,” Lewis said. “It really helps team morale.”
However, the role is not without challenges. Rising costs and financial pressures can make participation difficult for some families.
“Everything is really expensive now,” Lewis said. “We try to make sure every player still feels valued regardless of their situation.”
Both parents emphasized that creating an inclusive environment is one of the most important parts of their job.
“I always try to talk to every parent so everyone feels included,” Cohn said.
Additionally, being involved also affects their relationships with their children. While it can bring them closer and strengthen relations, it also requires balance.
“Sometimes I put the team before my own child,” Cohn said. “I want everyone to see there’s no special treatment.”
Lewis shares that same ideology, adding that fairness is key.
“Just because he’s my son doesn’t mean he gets anything extra,” Lewis said.
At the end of the day, parent volunteers are essential to the success of the program. From organizing logistics to building team spirit, their impact goes far beyond what fans see on game day.
