What Do Coaches Do?

Education

• Plan and lead practices and training sessions
• Teach sport-specific skills and game strategy
• Motivate and mentor athletes
• Analyze performance and make in-game adjustments
• Communicate with athletes, families, and staff

• Sport Management
• Exercise Science
• Kinesiology
• Physical Education
• Sport Administration
• Sports Medicine

Build Your Foundation

Gain Experience

Recommended Skills

Recommended Certifications

• Volunteering with youth or community sports
• Serving as a student assistant or team manager
• Coaching camps and clinics
• Assisting high school or collegiate teams
• Completing internships with athletic organizations

• Leadership
• Communication
• Team building
• Organization
• Problem solving
• Strategic thinking
• Performance analysis

• CPR/AED & First Aid
• NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching
• Sport-specific coaching certifications
• SafeSport Training (where applicable)

Common Career Path

Entry Level

Mid-Level

Advanced

• Youth Coach
• Volunteer Coach
• Camp Instructor
• Graduate Assistant

• High School Coach
• Club Coach
• Assistant College Coach
• Strength & Conditioning Coach

• Collegiate Head Coach
• Athletic Director
• Professional Coach
• Coach Educator

Potential Employers

• Youth recreation programs
• Club and travel sports organizations
• Parks and recreation departments
• K-12 schools
• Colleges and universities
• Professional sports organizations
• Private training facilities