Pathway to becoming a high school track coach

I'd love to coach track at the high school level in the future. Any advice on getting started with high school track coach jobs? Is a background in track and field essential? What kind of credentials are typically required for these roles?

There's no doubt that coaching track and field at the high school level can be a fulfilling path for those passionate about the sport and student development. Here's some guidance.

1. Sports-specific knowledge: While a background in track and field isn't technically a requirement for every coaching job, it's highly beneficial. Having first-hand experience as an athlete in track and field provides you with a nuanced understanding of the sport. This includes specific techniques, event rules, training routines, and strategies that can be crucial in training athletes.

2. Education and Certifications: Most schools require their coaches to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but some prefer individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree, especially in fields like physical education, kinesiology, or sports science. Acquiring coaching certifications can also boost your prospects. These might include the certification programs offered by USA Track and Field or the American Sport Education Program.

3. Teaching Credentials: High school sports coaches often double as teachers. As such, a teaching credential might be beneficial or even necessary, depending on the specific hiring practices of a school or district. Furthermore, being a teacher at the school you're looking to coach at provides a distinct advantage because many coaching positions are filled internally.

4. Experience: Aside from athletic and academic qualifications, experience will be a key determining factor. You might start gaining this via assistant coaching roles, volunteer coaching positions, or even roles in managing local sports events or clubs.

5. Soft skills: A coach doesn’t just instruct but also motivates and mentors athletes, fostering a positive, disciplined, and inclusive team environment. Communication, leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills are crucial.

6. Network: Connecting with other coaches and athletic directors can be advantageous, as they can provide meaningful insights, recommendation, or even job opportunities.

Lastly, you'd need to pass a background check to ensure the safety of student athletes.

So while a background in track and field is very beneficial, what's often more necessary is the right blend of educational, athletic, and professional experience, combined with a passion for student success. Get involved, start building up that résumé and make those connections in the world of high school track and field.