I have a passion for lacrosse and want to pursue coaching at the high school level. What's the best way to find lacrosse coaching opportunities near me, and what qualifications might I need?
Looking for coaching opportunities would require networking, research, and perseverance. Here are some ways you may find high school lacrosse coaching opportunities:
1. Online Job Boards: Websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, or school district hiring sites often list available coaching positions. You just need to filter by location and your desired position.
2. Network with Local Schools: Look into district or regional athletic conferences. Most schools have athletic departments; you could reach out to these departments directly to inquire about any open coaching positions for lacrosse.
3. Connect with Local Lacrosse Clubs: Lacrosse clubs and leagues often have news on coaching vacancies and might also offer part-time coaching opportunities themselves. This can be beneficial as it allows you to gain experience and network within the lacrosse community.
As for qualifications, they can vary by state and school, but here are a few common ones:
1. Experience: Many schools look for individuals who have playing or coaching experience in lacrosse. Some may prefer that you've played or coached at the collegiate level, but high school experience can be sufficient.
2. Education: While not always required, having a bachelor's degree can make you a more competitive candidate. Some schools may require a teaching credential if the coaching job also entails a teaching role.
3. Certifications: Depending on the state or school district, you may need to become certified to coach at the high school level. The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) offers courses and certification. These cover a wide variety of topics including fundamentals of coaching and first aid.
4. Clearances: Schools will require successful background checks, and possibly fingerprinting. Some schools might also require CPR and first-aid certification.
Remember that communication, leadership, and enthusiasm are crucial to become a successful lacrosse coach. Good luck in your coaching journey!
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