Guide for Coaches
Everything you need to know as a MIST team coach.
Coach Requirements
Section titled “Coach Requirements”- Must be 21 years of age or older
- Can be a parent, teacher, administrator, sibling, or trusted adult
- Must be registered through MyMIST
- At least one coach must be on campus at all times
- If a coach must leave, they must have a replacement
Registration Process
Section titled “Registration Process”- Register through MyMIST before the deadline
- Ensure all team members are properly registered
- Verify each student is registered for correct competitions
- Confirm early submissions are uploaded on time
- Review and accept responsibility for team conduct
Your Responsibilities
Section titled “Your Responsibilities”Before the Tournament
Section titled “Before the Tournament”During the Tournament
Section titled “During the Tournament”Supervision Rules
Section titled “Supervision Rules”Attendance
Section titled “Attendance”- At least one registered coach must be present at all times
- Students may not leave the venue without a coach from their team
- If you must leave temporarily, ensure another registered coach is present
Early Departure
Section titled “Early Departure”Students wanting to leave early must:
- Request permission from MIST 7+ days in advance
- Contact Regional Registration Headquarters
- Once approved, notify you (the coach) before leaving
Communication
Section titled “Communication”- Monitor official MIST communications (email, app, social media)
- Relay important updates to your team
- Students are responsible for reading their own communications too
Team Management Tips
Section titled “Team Management Tips”Preparing Your Team
Section titled “Preparing Your Team”- Hold pre-tournament meetings - Review rules and expectations
- Create a schedule - Help students know when/where to be
- Assign responsibilities - Especially for group projects
- Practice run-throughs - For presentations and performances
- Review dress code - Professional and formal attire required
Tournament Day Tips
Section titled “Tournament Day Tips”- Arrive early - Build in buffer time
- Have a meeting point - Where to gather if separated
- Collect phone numbers - For emergency contact
- Bring supplies - Snacks, water, first aid basics
- Stay positive - Your energy affects the team
What Judges Need From You
Section titled “What Judges Need From You”- Ensure students arrive on time
- Do not communicate with competitors during rounds
- Remain silent during competitions
- Follow audience guidelines when spectating
- Model good sportsmanship
Day-of Checklist
Section titled “Day-of Checklist”Morning
Section titled “Morning”Throughout the Day
Section titled “Throughout the Day”End of Day
Section titled “End of Day”Common Issues & Solutions
Section titled “Common Issues & Solutions”| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Student missing a competition | Contact MIST organizers immediately |
| Lost badge | See MIST Representative for replacement |
| Early departure needed | Must be requested 7+ days in advance |
| Competition time conflict | Contact Regional HQ before tournament |
| Student illness | Contact MIST organizers; may need documentation |
Contact Information
Section titled “Contact Information”Keep handy:
- Regional Headquarters contact info
- MIST organizers’ contact info
- Emergency venue contacts
- School/parent emergency contacts for students