Some of my basketball coaching colleagues may smile at the notion, but like most public school educators, I’ve coached a few fall sports through the years.

With the start of official high school fall sports activities, I thought today might be as good as a time as any to address seven key issues for players and parents at this time of the year.

In no particular order, let’s list the following.

No. 1 – Hydrate.

Although it may seem obvious, both athletes and parents need to be reminded that keeping the players’ bodies hydrated is an essential part of sports.

In our state, Maine Principals’ Association standards give coaches necessary guidelines for fluid use by participants.

This season, we have not had the blistering August heat which often accompanies the start of fall sports. Participants beware. That can all change overnight.

Stay wet. Be safe. Feel better.

No. 2 – Eat right.

Nothing bothers this old coach more than junk food. Nothing. Both kids and parents need to guard against potato chips, candy and sugar drinks, which may provide the so-called quick hit for athletes. In the long run, good foods will go the proverbial extra mile and do the body a much greater surface.

No. 3 – Proper Sleep.

The beginning of fall sports occurs just about the same time summer vacation is waning. Athletes must get good bed rest, despite the freedom which still exists until classes start. My mother always stressed to me that the sleep kids get before midnight benefited them more than early morning sleep.

After 34 years of coaching, I’d have to say I agree with her.

No. 4 – Proper study habits.

Oh, oh. Here comes the old teacher again. That’s right. Athletes are student-athletes, dear readers.

Here’s a tip for kids from an old English-teaching coach. Do your homework when you walk through the door. Do your weekend homework Friday night. Play or practice Saturday and leave Sunday for church and rest.

It’s as simple as that.

No. 5 – Make time for family.

All the sociology experts are telling us that the family unit is in decline.

So be it.

Enhance family structure by turning an afternoon soccer match into a family affair. Have a postgame meal with visiting relatives, who have traveled to see the game.

Staying together as a family is hard work in the face of a busy sports season. Making time for family activities within the structure of sports will go a long way in keeping the family together.

No. 6 – Fair play comes in all shapes and sizes.

Nothing irks this old coach more than players, fans, and parents who treat the opposition like the enemy.

This isn’t war we’re engaging in here. It is athletics.

Don’t diminish the sanctity of the proceedings with abusive of foul language. These are, after all, games. And they are all an extension of the classroom.

No. 7 – Treat the game officials well.

An equally important part of this process is how game officials are treated by both players and parents.

I can tell you in all honesty that in 34 years of coaching, I never saw a game official deliberately hurt my teams.

There you have it. Adherence to a few simple guidelines can enhance and improve the goings-on across the region on sundry fields of play.

Good luck. Enjoy the games.

BDN columnist Ron Brown, a retired high school basketball coach, can be reached at bdnsports@bangordailynews.net