Training/Education Needed to Be a Coach

If you have ever watched a coach pacing the sidelines at a football game or shouting encouragement at the edges of a basketball court, you might think it looks easy. However, not only can the job be more complex than you anticipate, but getting hired might not be as easy as you would expect. Depending on the state in which you live and the level at which you coach, you need to meet training and educational requirements before you can hold such a position.

  1. Middle and High Schools

    • Often, there are no educational requirements for middle and high school coaches. Some school districts require only that a prospective coach have experience in the sport, usually varsity playing experience. However, some require that applicants hold a bachelor's or master's degree, and some prefer prospective coaches to teach physical education or another subject. In addition, most public high school coaches need to obtain state certifications and some states require certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and other areas. Coaches at private secondary schools might not be required to obtain state certifications. The majority of jobs also require a criminal background check and child abuse history clearances.

    College

    • As with high schools, colleges often give preference to coaching applicants who have playing experience. Coaches usually must obtain at least a bachelor's degree in a field such as physical education, kinesiology, nutrition and fitness or sports medicine, although this is not necessary for some entry-level positions. Though high school coaches deal mainly with athletes, parents and school administrators, college coaches often have the added pressure of media attention, particularly if coaching a popular sport at a large university. They need to be good strategists and good communicators with strong interpersonal skills. Like professional coaches, many college coaches rise through the ranks of their program's management or are recruited by athletic administrators.

    Professional

    • It usually takes years to build enough experience to become a professional coach. The majority of professional teams give preference to individuals with playing experience and those who have spent a number of seasons coaching at the college or professional level. Often professional coaching candidates are recruited by a current member of the organization, or they advance from a lower position within the organization, such as an assistant coach. Team management usually considers a potential coach's record of wins and losses. Professional coaches should have a talent for dealing with people because they encounter a broad range of personalities. They also deal with media attention, and strategic thinking and management skills are crucial.