Coaching Association of Canada

Coaches are parents, teachers, neighbours – and ethical leaders in their communities.

Whether you're new to coaching or want to hone the skills you've already acquired, the CAC provides advice, information, and educational programs to help you succeed. Coaches help their participants reach for – and achieve – higher levels of performance, both on and off the field.

Coaches aim to:

Basic Coaching Skills

At the outset, it's less important to possess the technical skills of a specific sport than to bring your enthusiasm and passion to the role. You may already have some key coaching skills, including:

  • Enthusiasm, positivity, and the ability to improvise
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Effective leadership and team building 
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking

Coaches quickly develop other coaching skills once they've started on their pathway.

How to Get Started

Before taking the field, the CAC recommends first-time coaches take these foundational courses:

In the meantime, there are many ways to familiarize yourself with the many rewards that coaching brings. For example:

  • Talk to a coach you know
  • Help with your child's team so you can observe, ask questions, and build your own skills
  • Sign up to coach with a friend to learn together
  • Volunteer with a team in your community

Find the right coaching role for you in our NCCP Streams and Contexts.