My child will be coming out for the team this year. We'd love to have you over. Looking for an edge prior to the season can manifest itself in many ways, but socializing with parents of students and players can give the wrong message to other kids in the classroom and in the gym. No parent gets to talk to me about playing time unless I'm in the company of the athletic director or another school official. Basketball is not an equal opportunity employer, and the mere fact that a coach can only put five players on the floor at the same time creates a unique coaching situation.
Parents like to talk.
That is a given. They especially like to talk about their kids. Don't get into a casual conversation about your team's future, which could quickly develop into something else. I take no calls at home. Parents who persist in seeing me must make an appointment through the office.