Tools of the trade
An athletic coach is responsible for coaching or guiding an athletic team, including men's and women's baseball, basketball, football, golf, soccer, track, swimming, tennis, volleyball and wrestling. Because most coaches have played their respective sport at some level, they have extensive knowledge of the way the game is played, its strategies, rules and regulations. Requirements for becoming a certified athletic coach vary by individual state and specific type of certification.
Instructions
1. Be familiar with the coaching profession. Coaches instruct and manage amateur and professional athletes in the basic skills of individual and team sports. Practice and training sessions are held to improve the individual's form, technique, stamina, and ability. Coaches are responsible for encouraging athletes to have a competitive spirit, good sportsmanship, and effective teamwork. Before a game, coaches may determine game strategies and specific plays by observing the opposing team.
2. Determine your level of coaching. High school coaches are primarily school teachers who supplement their income by working part time as a coach. Coaching in college is usually considered a full-time position, which often requires traveling to college games, scouting and signing up prospective players. Very often, colleges hire coaches who have varsity or professional playing experience.
3. Have the proper educational levels. Head coaches at public high schools and college coaches typically have a bachelor's degree. There are degreed programs which are specifically related to coaching which focus on physical education, physiology, sports medicine, and nutrition.
4. Learn about the certification process. Becoming a certified athletic coach includes taking courses related to safety, sports equipment, athletic training and rules of popular team sports. Most high school coaches need to meet the state requirements for certification to become head coach. However, this may not be required in private schools. Certification may be also required in college. Certifying requirements vary by state, but usually include being 18 years old and certified in CPR by the American Heart Association or American Red Cross.
5. Check certification requirements in your state. If you are considering a career as an athletic coach, verify the certification requirements in your state before making a decision that could affect your educational curriculum.
6. Take appropriate classes. Becoming a certified athletic coach includes completing semester hours in the care and prevention of athletic injuries, the dangers of drug use, including performance enhancing drugs, and coaching a specific sport.
7. Apply to the state for certification. You need to apply to your respective state for certification. This will include a processing fee and verification of all completed courses including official transcripts and copies of certificates. After a period of time, your certification for athletic coaching also must be renewed.
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