You can’t win without a coach.
Every sport needs someone to guide the players through the game, show them how to do it better, and help them prepare for their opponents. A good coach is worth their weight in gold. But not just any person can be a great coach – there are some basic things you need before you even think about putting on the whistle.
- Start with Children’s Sports
If you want to coach at the top levels of professional sports, you need experience coaching kids. Even if you don’t intend on coaching in the Big Leagues, it never hurts to begin with something simpler – developing young players is similar to developing seasoned veterans, albeit on a much smaller scale. Also, getting children excited about sports at a young age is a rewarding experience for both you and them.
- Learn the Ropes of Officiating
If you want to take your coaching career to the next level and become a referee, first learn to coach. If you want to be an official at the Big League level, you need years of experience as a coach – not just any coach either, but someone who has worked their way up through the ranks.
- Build Your Own Experience
If you’re still looking to become a sports coach, think about where and how you plan on coaching. If your goal is to work with youth and high school teams, volunteer at any program that interests you or at one near your home. Simply seeing the ins and outs of different programs could help you decide which sport is right for your career.
- Take Education Classes
Even if you’re well on your way to becoming a coach, it might not be a bad idea to go back and get your degree. Many universities offer coaching classes for students who want to learn more about sports, fitness, and how they’re connected.
- Seek Certification
Coaching can be a little like judging, so make sure you’re certified by the proper authorities. You don’t need to go way overboard – stick with the certifications recommended by other coaches you know.
With these tips, you should be well on your way to becoming a coach!