COACHING EDUCATION
The coaching education program provides educational opportunities for all levels of coaches, from grass roots to the elite level. The program is comprised of three progression levels, each of which has the following components:
Sport Science
Extensive instruction in sport science is covered in order to provide a scientific basis of understanding for rational development of technique and training programs. The sport science portion has been developed by the American Coaching Effectiveness Program (ACEP) and the USATF National Coaching Education Committee. It includes sport psychology, pedagogy, and sports medicine.
Technical, Event-Specific Instruction
Throws, jumps, sprints/hurdles, and endurance events are all covered at the basic level in this school. Event-specific instruction is progressive in nature. Consequently, at Levels 2 and 3, each event is covered in greater depth and detail than the previous level.
Hands-on Training
Experience is the best teacher. Minimum standards of practical experience are expected of participants at each level.
Calendar of Schools
Education Levels
Developmental - Association-based, introductory course that offers a grass roots overview of the sport and coaching.
Level 1 - basic knowledge course that emphasizes rules, basic mechanics, and teaching progressions.
Level 2 - more in-depth training in an event specific group (sprints/hurdles/relays, endurance, jumps, throws, combined events).
Level 3 - very high-level seminar structure educational experience in a specific event area.
Other Opportunities
Special Programs - USATF will occasionally sponsor or support special clinics or programs.
National Podium Education Project - Seminar to ensure U.S.A dominates the podium at Olympic Games and World Championships.
Minority Women Coaching Education Scholarship (2008-09 academic year)
Coaching Youth Track & Field - Official handbook of the Hershey's Track & Field Games.
Advanced Event Summits - very high-level seminars focusing on a specific event group.
Coaching Education
