Swimming Coach Job Description
The swimming coach, coaches individuals or teams in competitive swimming activities. In the position of swim coach, this instructor must teach persons how to use equipment and proper technique for swimming competitions. The swim coach must follow all rules and regulations of water safety and ensures the students do as well.
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Duties
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The swimming coach acts as a scout by assessing form, skill and stamina to determine potential talent for swim teams. Practice sessions for competition are conducted by the swim coach. Individuals or teams are instructed on good sportsmanship, competitive spirit and teamwork skills. Equipment and supplies are evaluated by the coach for damage and repair. The swim coach must be aware of the any medical condition of all swimmers on the team. He is familiar with emergency procedures and informs the team of such procedures. It is duty of the swim coach to be present at all swim meets.
Education
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The swimming coach is a high school diploma and has at least one year of experience in coaching swimming. In most cases the swim coach is a licensed lifeguard. Other educational qualifications may vary greatly, as it depends on the capacity in which the swim coach works. Most educational institution requires a degree in physical education or related field to athletic coaching. Usually the swimming coach has experience in actually performing the sport herself and has an in-depth knowledge of the sport.
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Abilities
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In the way of ability, the coach understands swim codes, laws and safety regulations. He knows how to apply swimming competition techniques. The swimming coach has specific ability of teaching form, technique and competition methods. She is able to communicate orally and in writing. The coach is also able to maintain positive working relationships. The ability to be flexible is also present in the swimming coach.
Skills
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The swimming coach has the skills of organization when it comes to setting up swimming events and practices. He is also skilled in actually showing students swim stroke technique that increases speed and cut down on swim times.
Salary and Occupational Outlook
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2008 coaching positions such as swimming earned an annual average salary of $28,340. Salary ranges vary greatly from $18,220 to $43,440. Swimming coaches working at colleges, universities and professional schools earned at the higher end of the pay scale, while coaches working with elementary and secondary schools earned at the lower end of the pay scale. Occupational outlook for coaches and other athletic workers is expected to increase 23 percent by the year 2018. Increase is due the population looking to join organized sports and private sports instruction growing for the younger generation.
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References
- Photo Credit competitive swimming image by Chad McDermott from Fotolia.com
