How to Become a High School Athletic Coach

A coach functions as a teacher.

High school coaches fulfill a teaching role, helping team members learn the skills of the sport. Similar to teachers who must grade papers after school, they continue their coaching duties in evening and weekend practices and games. Expertise in sports and experience in coaching are essential for a high school coach. However, a college degree and teaching credential also help you obtain a high school coaching job.

Instructions

1. Compete in sports while completing your high school diploma. Get experience playing the particular sport or sports you wish to coach. Employers look for first-hand knowledge of the sport when hiring coaches for high school.

2. Volunteer as an assistant coach with a community league of younger players. Work with the sport or sports you plan to coach in high school.

3. Complete a college bachelor's degree in physical education or a related subject. Take classes in sports science, physiology, nutrition and kinesiology. Add a minor in another subject such as health or English so that you can teach that subject also. Although they don't always require coaches to have a degree, most high schools prefer it. Continue participating in sports at the college level and coaching community sports.

4. Fulfill the requirements for a teaching credential in your state, including education classes, practice teaching and testing. Many high school coaching jobs are part time, so schools prefer coaches who can also teach physical education or other subjects.

5. Complete the coach certification requirements for your particular state. Although requirements vary, the mandates usually include certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, also known as CPR.

6. Apply at the school district of your choice for an assistant coaching job. As a beginning coach, expect to spend part of your time teaching physical education or another subject, especially in a high school with a small sports program.

7. Work your way up to head coach as you gain in experience and reputation. Good results for your team give you the best chance of advancement.

Tips & Warnings

• Develop your leadership abilities in high school and college in both athletic and non-athletic extracurricular activities.

• Take English and communication classes while in school to develop your communication skills.

• Many high schools do a background check and drug test of prospective coaches.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook; Athletes, Coaches, Umpires; 2010-11
• Education Portal: High School Coach -- Description, Duties and Requirements
• Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook; Teachers; 2010-11
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Coach

Resources

• National High School Coaches Association
• Education Portal: How to Become a Football Coach
• O-Net Online: Coaches and Scouts