<p>I think it is best for the parents to ask the coach in person, with their child sitting there, if possible. If not, phone is better so you can gage the sincerity of the coach by listening to his/her voice. Put your kid on the line as well. Then, follow up with an email confirming details of the phone call with a question at the end so the coach has to respond to the email. Really, it all comes down to trust, and although I hate to say it, trust can be in short supply in collegiate athletics.</p>