Coaches are critical to the success of individual athletes and teams. Good coaches ensure sporting participants have positive experiences and are therefore more likely to continue in their chosen sport.
Good volunteer management practices
Many coaches are volunteers who provide their free time to help the club. They need to be supported, so it's important to use sould volunteer management practices.
Training
Providing training opportunities for coaches is vital. Training helps coaches feel confident in what they are doing and ensures coaching sessions are effective.
Training can either be:
- Internal: utilising the skills of experienced coaches within the club to deliver an introduction to coaching course that assists beginner coaches develop basic skills.
- External: encourage coaches at all levels to continue their education by attending courses run by the Department of Sport and Recreation, State Sporting Associations and/or part of the National Coaching Accreditation Scheme.
Ongoing support
One of the greatest fears new coaches is knowing whether they are coaching effectively. Providing a mentor coach to guide and support beginner coaches is a great way to make beginners feel at ease and at the same time ensure their skills are enhanced.
Promote philosophy
It is important that a club has a clear philosophy in regards to the way it delivers sport. If involved in junior sport it is hoped the ideals of participation and fun, rather than a focus on winning, are promoted.
Adult sport may have a greater focus on outcome. Either way, it is vital that coaches implement these club philosophies and they are clearly promoted to players and parents.
Also, encouraging coaches to sign a code of ethics will demonstrate to club members that a sport is committed to providing a safe and fair environment in which to participate in.
It is important that clubs put in place steps to ensure all members are safe while participating.
Insurance
It is important to ensure coaches are covered by appropriate insurance. Those coaches that are getting paid, or receiving a honouriam, may not be covered by insurance intended for volunteer coaches.
Databases
The Department of Sport and Recreation has a database for coaches wishing to be kept up to date about courses and the latest research. Clubs are encouraged to register their individual coaches or a coach co-ordinator each season.
Aaron Morse
Project Officer - Industry Training and Development
246 Vincent Street, LEEDERVILLE WA 6007
PO Box 329, LEEDERVILLE WA 6903
Telephone (08) 9492 9758
Facsimile (08) 9492 9711
Email Aaron
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