Approaching schools as a coach
 

Hi guys,

Just looking for some input as to how I want to go about this.

I am in the second year of my Diploma in sport and recreation this year, and I though that it would be beneficial both as a sport science student and as a cyclist to do some amature level coaching in the local schools. (13 - 18).

I plan on writing a LETTER to the school's Sports co-ordinators, and offer my service as a coach for individual cyclists (incorporating road, tri, MTB etc) on a beginners level (my knowledge is not good enough for an age group racer) and also teams if they have enough athletes to make one.

Do you guys have anything to say that might be worth writing in my letter or anything else?

Regards,
Brendon

Yeah- give all your certifications and licensing as a licensed coach.

In the USA, they're also conducting background checks when dealing with children. Be prepared for a background check of some sort.

Koffee

.... my partial completion of my Diploma is all that I have....

Then I'd have to say you're not qualified as a coach.

Probably, it would be best for you to find a coach to work under, and then apply as a summer intern. Learn what it really means to be a coach, and then when you graduate and get your licensing through your country, you can apply for a real job.

Internships... they're not there for nuthin!

Koffee

Koffee - I don't know what it's like in the states, but most cycling coaching here is done as a volunteer, and usually by unqualified persons such as myself who have a genuine knowledge and involvement in the sport. Hell, you're lucky to even get a coach half the time! I've never had one myself, just the internet and tips from random people.

NZ, ask someone who knows--someone in the field that lives in NZ

or get in touch with someone you studied under or received the acreditation from

good luck :)

No Fear NZL!!! Just do it!!!!! I think you will find that enthusiasm will cover the lack of licensure! just be patient and don't put all of your eggs in one basket. some places might have a rule in place requiring licensure for liability reasons, but I doubt there would be many! In general I have been met warmly when I have volunteered my coaching services good Luck
****

If I ever heard of an American public school spending even a single penny on a cycling coach, team, or class, my faith in the world would be restored.

If they used drivers education funds to pay for it, I would move there.

Just go for it. Start with your old college, and talk to your former coaches there. If that doesn't work, they might know someone who would be interested. Sending letters is good, but networking is better.

Try http://www.bikenz.org.nz/Article.aspx?ID=20978. I would strongly advise qualifying as a cycling specific coach in addition to your sports science diploma. You will automatically be checked against police/govt database for a clear criminal record with special reference to child abuse. The school will then have no trouble in approving you, should they accept your offer.

Your existing course will no doubt provide you with an excellent background in the physiological and psychological aspects of sport and you may well be knowledgeable about cycling, but running structured cycle coaching sessions requires specialised knowledge about planning and evaluating which the course would give you.

It will also give you useful contacts for advice and possible "customers" for your services.

Good luck

Cuz, talk to Jason at www.bikeschool.co.nz, he coaches a heap of local school kids on a volunteer basis and would be able to point you in the right direction.

cher cher