If you have played sports or simply have a passion for sports, it may be possible to further indulge that passion by becoming a college sports coach. As long as you have sufficient knowledge of the sport and have the right connections, there is no reason why you can’t break in at the college level. Let’s take a look at the actual steps taken to start a college coaching career.
1) Make Sure You Understand the Sport Well Enough
The first question you need to ask is how well you understand the sport that you want to coach. Simply watching the game on television or being good a sports video game is not enough to become a coach. At an interview, you can be sure that you will be asked about your coaching philosophy and what type of game plan you would create.
2) Take Stock of Your Experience
Many college coaches have played the game at the college level or coach at the high school level. Prior to obtaining paying work, it may be necessary to be an intern at the high school or college level. If you don’t have the right experience, an internship may be where you get your start.
3) Get in Touch With Your Connections
Many coaches get jobs based on who they know. For instance, if you still talk to your old coach or have connections at the college where you went to school, it may be enough to get yourself a job. If you are big in your community, you may have the name recognition to get a job at smaller local schools.
4) Apply for an Open Position
Just like any other line of work, you will need to apply for an open position. Those who lack experience may be asked to coach a certain position group or be an assistant to other coaches on the team. In some cases, a position may be created for you if you interview well and could help a team win games or recruit.
5) Interview for a Job
Schools that feel like you would be helpful to them will then schedule you for an interview. Those who want to learn more about the interview process or how to write a great resume may wish to take classes at Ohio University Online or other similar schools.
6) Get the Position and Work Your Way Up the Ranks
Once you get a position, you can start working your way up the ranks. If you are responsible for your team winning games due to your influence on game planning or improving a position group, you could be in line for a promotion. Earning a promotion to a higher position or higher profile school could also lead to a big raise.
Coaching at the college level can be a rewarding experience. However, you need to make sure that you have the right skills and experience to do so. Assuming that your skill set is what a school is looking for, starting your coaching career is similar to starting any other career.
About Author
Karleia Steiner is a freelance blogger. Away from the office she enjoys spending time with her two daughters.
