Becoming a sports coach – what you need to know

Becoming a sports coach – what you need to know 

If you love sport, you may want to earn money from taking part every day. The problem is that only a small percentage of people are good enough to play sport professionally. Even, if you are good enough to compete at this level, sports careers do not last forever. If you are one of many people who is good at sport, but has not found a route to compete professionally, or who has come to the end of a professional career, sports coaching may be a good option for you. 

The government provides information about sports coaching which it’s worth taking a look at. There are several basic factors that you need to think about, if you are considering a career as a sports coach. 

The attributes that a sports coach must have 

You do not need to have a professional coaching qualification in order to coach sport, although professional accreditation is available and can be an advantage when you are looking for work. Any professional sports coach also needs to possess certain attributes. 

• In depth knowledge of any sport that is being coached. If you are unsure of which is your preferred sport, take a look at some of the most popular sports in Australia, for inspiration. 
• The ability to communicate clearly and effectively. 
• Enthusiasm and self-motivation to be able to coach even when things are not going well. 
• Flexibility and an ability to adjust to unexpected situations and think creatively. 
• A willingness to work long and unsocial hours and travel long distances. 

If you do not have these attributes, you may find it difficult to find work and to remain in any post you are successful in filing. 

Good background for becoming a sports coach 

As we mentioned earlier, you do not need to have formal qualifications to become a sports coach, although undertaking coaching training, or associated skills training, such as a basic physiotherapy course, can be an advantage; learn moreabout this. You may also find it useful to take a look at the coaching qualification framework for your state. 

There are other backgrounds which can help if you are thinking of beginning a career as a sports coach. A background in playing the sport professionally, or at a good amateur level, can be an advantage. Of course, this does not mean that every good player is a great coach. The attributes we mentioned earlier are equally as important as great skills. You can also opt for a traineeship as a coach, so that you can learn while getting hands on experience. There is no one perfect background for entering the world of sports coaching. 

The most important thing is that you have the attributes in place, and an expansive knowledge of the sport that you are coaching. Training and qualifications are an advantage if you have them in addition to these attributes and sports knowledge.