HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical pathway for a Canadian secondary-school student is to take courses like Physical Education and English, then build experience through school teams, community sports, or volunteering as an assistant coach. Many people start by helping younger athletes, leading practices, or supporting a local club, and then move into more responsibility as they learn to plan training, motivate players, and read game situations. Some coaches also complete postsecondary study in a sports-related field, coaching education, or a related program, depending on the employer, province, sport, and level of competition.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Identify strengths and weaknesses of athletes or teams
- Plan, develop and implement training and practice sessions
- Nurture and develop athletes' potential skills and abilities
- Develop, plan and co-ordinate competitive schedules and programs
- Motivate and prepare athletes or teams for competitive events or games
- Formulate competitive strategy, develop game plans and direct athletes and players during games or athletic events
- Analyse and evaluate athletes' or teams' performances and modify training programs.
SKILLS TO BUILD
Skills used in this Career
Interpersonal skillsLeadershipSportsTeam-building