High School Lacrosse Coaching Careers

As a lacrosse player, I'm considering a future in coaching. How can I get started coaching lacrosse at the high school level, and what qualifications would I need?

Entering the coaching career can be incredibly rewarding, and your passion for lacrosse will certainly provide a strong foundation. Coaching at the high school level typically requires a comprehensive knowledge of the sport, some teaching or leadership experience, and often some form of certification. In general, it's beneficial to follow these steps:

1. Get Involved: Try to get involved with a high school lacrosse team as early as possible, even if in a support role like assisting with drills, helping with equipment, or filming games. This involvement will allow you to understand the operational side of coaching, while also learning from experienced coaches.

2. Learn: Understand the rules of the game and tactics thoroughly, and always look for opportunities to expand your knowledge. This might mean attending coaching clinics, watching other teams and analyzing their strategies, or studying coaching literature.

3. Gain Coaching Experience: Volunteer or work as a coach for a youth lacrosse team. This experience is often a minimum requirement for high school coaching positions, and it will help you develop essential coaching skills like leadership, decision-making, and communication.

4. Become Certified: Most high school athletic associations require coaches to be certified. These certifications usually involve completing a course on first aid and CPR, as well as courses specific to coaching (like fundamentals of coaching, sport-specific techniques and methods).

5. Education: While not always required, a bachelor's degree in a field related to sports, like PE or Sports Science, can make you a more competitive candidate for coaching positions.

6. Network: Connect with other coaches and athletic administrators. They can provide advice, job leads, and might even offer you a position on their coaching staff.

Remember, coaching is not just about the x's and o's but also about mentoring young athletes and nurturing their love for the game. Best of luck in your coaching journey!