Here’s a sample first paragraph: “After over a year on the team, it is with great regret that I must announce my resignation from the Pleasantville Lemon Trees Junior Lacrosse Varsity Squad, effective immediately. ” The first paragraph does not have to be long. A couple of sentences is fine, unless you have more to communicate.

Include your reasons for leaving the team, but be honest. For example: “I need to go to a team where I’ll be able to get more playing time. ” Mention what you liked about being on the team and any life lessons you learned. For example: “I enjoyed working with you, and I learned a lot under your tutelage. In particular, your comments on both my stick- and footwork have helped me greatly. ” Many teams include photos of team members on marketing materials, especially on social media. If you don’t want your image to be included in these materials in the future, state so in your letter. Be aware that some prior agreements may allow the team to maintain your image in marketing materials, however. Keep your letter as emotionless and factual as possible.

Include your willingness to help the team, if needed, before you depart. Only do this if it’s something you’re able to do. Don’t make any commitments that you can’t keep.

If you do not have a computer, you can always go to the library because many libraries have a computer center that is open to the public. Usually all you need is a free library card. While Microsoft Word is the most commonly used word processing software, some people also use Pages, which is a software application exclusive to Mac computers. If you hand write the letter, be sure to use good penmanship so that your letter is easy to read.

You can use the default margin settings included in most word processors, which is 1 1⁄4 inches (3. 2 cm) on all sides (right, left, top, and bottom). Use an easy to read font, such as Times New Roman, Arial, Verdana, or Cambria, with a font size of 10, 11, or 12. You can select a different easy-to-read font if you have a preference. Single space the letter and place an extra line between paragraphs. You should also place an extra line after the address and salutation, however, there are four extra lines after the date. Your letter should not be more than one page in length.

If the address is not available, you can leave it out and move on to the next step.

Although “Dear” is appropriate within the context of a letter, it is not necessarily the best salutation if you choose to send your letter in the body of an email. Email messages tend to be less formal and call for a less formal salutation, such as “Hi Coach (last name). ”

You can hand the coach the letter after practice and have a conversation immediately following, or you can discuss the details at a later date.

Make sure that you can trust this person to deliver the letter. Don’t choose someone who may lose or forget the letter.

Avoid using the coach’s personal home address, as this may come off as unprofessional.

Put your name and team name in the subject. Don’t use a casual title, like “Hey!” or “Hello. "

You can find inexpensive greeting cards and thank you cards at stores like Target and Walmart, as well as other retailers such as various dollar stores and grocery stores.

Why do I want to leave the team? When do I want to leave the team? For instance, will you wait until the end of the season or leave immediately. [3] X Research source

How will leaving the team positively impact me? (list all of the pros) How will leaving the team negatively impact me? (list all of the cons)

If you are leaving to try another sport or to focus on schoolwork, you should feel confident about leaving because it will be beneficial to your future. If you are leaving because there is a difficult situation that you have not been able to handle, you may consider staying and getting assistance with resolving the problem.

Your replacement activity should be of greater benefit to you in the short-term or long-term.