How to become a basketball coach in high school

What Degree Do You Have to Have to Become a High School Basketball Coach? | Work

By Mary Dowd Updated July 21, 2020

If you excelled as a basketball player and have previous coaching experience, a school may consider any degree for a coaching position, assuming you have state teaching credentials. Similarly, basketball coaching jobs go to school principals from diverse academic backgrounds. You will also need to satisfy any state high school coaching certification requirements such as first aid training.

High School Basketball Coach Job Duties

Landing a basketball coaching job can be the realization of a lifelong dream. Successful coaches immerse themselves in the success of their team. They have myriad duties such as recruiting top-notch players, hosting tryouts and holding practice. Rules are explained and enforced. Many hours are spent helping student-athletes build skills, techniques and endurance.

Dedicated high school basketball coaches emphasize the importance of character, teamwork and sportsmanship on and off the court. High school basketball coaches respond to parent questions and concerns about schedules and playing time. According to the Basketball Coaching Tools website, tech-savvy high school basketball coaches use software like Hudl to analyze opponents and devise playing strategies.

High School Basketball Coach Education Requirements

Becoming a high school coach starts with earning a bachelor's degree in a major area of concentration and completing education classes that qualify you to sit for a teacher license in your state. Some coaches majored in health, physical education, nutrition or kinesiology, but others majored in subjects like English, history and social studies. The Top Education organization suggests that having a double major in two subjects along with a sports background offers a competitive edge in the job market.

A bachelor’s degree, a teaching or administrator license and a satisfactory background check are minimum requirements for working as a head basketball coach in most states. Less stringent rules apply to retired teachers volunteering as assistant coaches who may not need basketball coach certification. State requirements can be accessed from the NFHS Coaches Association website.

Some states also require various types of high school sports coaching certification. For example, the Texas-based University Interscholastic League (UIL) stipulates that head coaches in Texas high schools must be full-time employees within their school district and fulfill certification requirements. Texas law and UIL requires safety training and completion of an approved Coaches Certification Program (CCP). The CCP covers ethics, concussion training, contest rules and sport-specific training.

Basketball Coach Salary

Basketball coach salary varies from one school to the next. A small number of full-time basketball coaching jobs are available at prestigious schools. High school and elementary coaches earn a median annual salary of $29,960, as of May 2019, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

More often, basketball coaches are teachers who receive a modest stipend for the added assignment of coaching. For example, the 2019-20 Gwinnett County Public Schools salary schedule indicates that new JV basketball coaches would receive $3,211 added to their salary in 2020. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that secondary school teachers earn an average base salary of $65,920, as of May 2019.

Industry

High school basketball coaches should love their job because the monetary compensation is not commensurate with the time spent coaching the sport. The job requires long, irregular hours supervising practices and coaching games. Travel is another big part of the job. They must juggle coaching activities with their demanding teaching duties and important family responsibilities.

Years of Experience

Experienced high school basketball coaches with an impressive winning record may be courted by other schools offering a higher basketball coach salary. Teacher contracts typically include salary steps that provide incremental raises for each year of employment. For example, a JV basketball coach with five years of coaching experience at Gwinnett County Public Schools receives $3,463 for the season, while a coach with 20 years of experience receives $5,393.

Job Growth Trend

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that job demand for coaches looks bright with an anticipated growth rate of 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, driven in part by increased student participation in high school sports. By comparison, BLS projects a 4 percent growth rate for high school teachers. Those who land secondary teaching positions may face less competition for coaching jobs.

References

• NFHS: State Coaching Requirements
• Top Education: Do You Need an Education Degree to Become a Coach?
• Basketball Coaching Tools: Becoming a High School Basketball Coach
• UIL Texas: UIL Coaching Requirements
• U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: OES: Secondary School Teachers
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: High School Teachers Job Outlook
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Coaches and Scouts

Writer Bio

Mary Dowd holds a doctorate in educational leadership and a master’s in counseling and student affairs from Minnesota State Mankato. Helping students succeed has been her passion while serving in many areas of student affairs and adjunct teaching. Currently she is a dean of students at a large, public university. Dr. Dpwd’s writing experience includes published research, training materials and hundreds of practical online articles.

How to Become a Basketball Coach (11-Step Guide)

Coaching young people at the youth and high school level is an important job.

Aside from teaching the skills and fundamentals of basketball, a great basketball coach can have a tremendous impact on the life of a child.

The coaching community is in need of quality role models to enter the profession… and more importantly, young people are in need of these role models.

We need more people learning how to become a basketball coach!

But how does a person begin his or her coaching career?

Maybe you aspire to one day be a high school head coach, or maybe you would simply like to help out at the local community center.

Regardless of your coaching aspirations, there are several ways to give yourself the best chance of finding your “dream job.”

Below I’ll explain how…

An important question to consider when starting your coaching career is:

“Why do I want to coach?”

The answer to that question may help you determine the best level for you.

For example, if your goal is to make a lot of money, you probably won’t be happy at the youth or high school levels. But if your passion is making a difference in the lives of young people, the younger levels could be perfect for you.

The decision between the youth and high school levels can be a difficult one.

There are pros and cons to each level.

At the youth level, you get to see players improve rapidly as they learn the game for the first time. Many youth teams don’t practice every day, so it is easier to schedule practices around other obligations. However, if you enjoy high-level competition and advanced offensive and defensive execution, you may want to move up to a higher level.

High school coaches usually have more practice time and more leeway to implement Xs and Os they like, and the high school level can be very competitive. However, this means there is far more pressure. It’s also a bigger time commitment, so your work schedule and family commitments must be considered.

Regardless of your preferred coaching destination, you have to start somewhere.

Few, if any, coaches start immediately with a varsity head coaching position.

Most learn the basics on how to become a basketball coach at the youth level.

If you’re humble enough to start there, you’ll be pleased to know that many schools and community leagues are always looking for help.

You will have to volunteer at first, but it is a great way to gain experience.

There is another advantage of starting at the youth level…

It makes you a better coach!

Because the players are younger and the game is newer to them, you must learn to teach the game simply and clearly. This skill will serve you well if you choose to advance to higher levels later.

Plus, working with young kids is extremely fun and rewarding!

3. Attend Basketball Clinics and Basketball Camps

A large part of the coaching opportunities you get will come down to two factors:

a. WHAT you know

b. WHO you know

Coaches should always continue expanding their knowledge of the game.

Even the best coaches are constantly seeking out new ideas.

The good news is that it has never been easier to learn about the game.

There are many resources available online and on social media.

It’s also good to attend some coaching clinics.

Basketball coaching clinics are an excellent way to hear experienced coaches share their knowledge while meeting and networking with other coaches.

You may also consider volunteering at a basketball camp.

This could be at your local high school or even at a college.

Many colleges look for young coaches to help out at their youth camps, and some even pay their helpers.

These camps give you some extra coaching experience and are great networking opportunities.

This is a crucial part of coaching development.

Coaching is naturally a profession of service.

If you’re willing to reach out, there are likely plenty of coaches in your area who would love to share ideas and help you get your basketball coaching career started.

One idea is to seek out a recently retired coach.

This person might have more free time than someone currently coaching, and would have years of experience to share with you.

If you don’t know of a retired coach, contact some local high school coaches who you respect.

Most would be happy to go out to lunch or engage in a phone conversation.

Most head coaches began their careers as assistants.

Assistant coaches are tremendously important to the success of a program and often have more time to focus on player development.

Seek out the best coaches in your area and find out if they are looking for assistants.

A good head coach can give you a big knowledge boost as you study how to become a basketball coach, and they could also serve as a great reference as you try to move up the coaching ladder.

Look for someone whose style you may like to emulate and who will give you an important role on the coaching staff.

Assistant coaching positions may or may not be paid, but they are crucial in advancing your career.

As you seek out potential assistant coaching jobs, it’s helpful to specialize in at least one particular area.

From a head coach’s perspective, it’s nice to have assistants who are experts in different parts of the game.

For example, if you are a phenomenal shooting coach, you can immediately add value to any program in that area. The same is true if you are an excellent defensive technician.

One of the most famous assistant coaches who had a specialty was Tex Winter, the master of the Triangle Offense. He was Phil Jackson’s sidekick for many years.

This doesn’t mean you can neglect the other aspects of the game, of course...

You must continue to learn and grow in all areas.

You can also enhance a program by becoming an expert in some off-the-court skills.

Running a high school program requires many elements outside of on the court coaching:

• Scouting
• Fundraising
• Running social media accounts
• Promoting players to colleges
• etc.

If you excel in one of these areas, that can help you earn an assistant’s job and eventually become a head coach.

Once you have your foot in the door as a youth coach or as a high school assistant, do absolutely everything possible to add value to your program.

Some coaches fail because they look down on seemingly minor tasks.

Be grateful for all opportunities you get!

If your head coach needs someone to run the clock at practice, do it willingly.

If a player needs a rebounder, volunteer to rebound and pass.

If the floor needs to be swept, grab a broom.

These things will make a good impression on your head coach and your players.

These tasks may seem small but they need done and doing them makes your team better.

Basketball coaching jobs, especially at the high school varsity level, can be difficult to get.

Depending on your area and the quality of the job, there could be dozens of applicants.

As with any job, an applicant’s resume plays an important part in receiving an interview and a potential job offer.

When putting your resume together, consider what skills you have that might set you apart from other applicants.

Is there something tangible that shows your impact on a basketball program?

For example, consider this line on a resume:

“As our program’s defensive coach, I helped improve our team’s points allowed from 65 points per game in 2018-2019 to 52 points per game in 2019-2020.”

This line stands out because it proves you have had success in your role.

If you don’t have specific successes like that example, do your best to highlight what skills you will bring to a basketball program.

Remember to be honest but to emphasize what you do well.

Before you start to receive interviews, it’s important to prepare a coaching portfolio.

This could be an important part of the interview process and could also help you clarify your coaching philosophy and program plan.

There is no “right” way to create a portfolio.

However, most coaches include:

• Their standards/values
• Coaching philosophy
• Expectations on the court
• Expectations in the classroom
• Offensive/defensive ideas
• etc

If you are preparing to interview for a head coaching position, be sure to include ways to develop your middle school and youth players as well.

Remember to connect your portfolio to the specific needs of the program.

For example, if the program has previously struggled with discipline, you might want to emphasize your team standards and how you hold players accountable to those expectations.

Your interview is your big opportunity to make an impression and land your dream job.

Do your best to prepare so that you can remain calm during the interview.

Do some research on the school and program.

• What might they be looking for?
• Is it a successful program, or have they been struggling?
• Why did the previous coach leave?

Be prepared to answer questions about your philosophy, ability to connect with kids, running a K-12 program (if applicable), conducting tryouts, and dealing with difficult parents.

While your preferred Xs and Os could come into play, keep in mind that many members of the interview committee may have little basketball knowledge.

Administrators often care more about behind the scenes aspects of running a program than specific offenses and defenses.

• How does the coach communicate?
• Can he or she cooperate with other coaches in our school?
• Does he or she carry themself like a professional?
• Does the coach encourage players to excel academically?
• How does he or she deal with angry parents?

Be ready to discuss these kinds of questions.

Remember to dress professionally, and, most importantly, be yourself!

Ultimately, you want to find a job that is a great fit for you.

Be honest, be yourself, and articulate your vision clearly.

Getting a head coaching job takes some time and often requires some good luck.

There may be some rejection and frustration along the way.

Do your best to enjoy each step of the process and make a positive impact on the lives of the players you get to coach.

Use your time spent moving up the ladder to learn, gain experience, and make a difference.

The best way to get a better job is to make an impact at your current job.

Remember that ALL coaching opportunities have value, regardless of role and level, because they provide us with opportunities to teach the game and build quality young people.

1. Find Your "WHY"

2. Get Your Foot in the Door

3. Attend Basketball Clinics and Basketball Camps

4. Find a Basketball Mentor

5. Become an Assistant Coach

6. Specialize in One Specific Area

7. No Job is Too Small

8. Clean Up Your Resume

9. Create a Coaching Portfolio

10. Prepare For Your Interview

11. Be Patient

Before you leave, there’s one more important thing to know…

Former playing experience is not a requirement to start your journey learning how to become a basketball coach.

While playing experience certainly helps, there have been plenty of excellent coaches who did not play the game at a high level.

Coaching requires a completely different skill set than playing.

So if you’re a person who loves basketball and would like to make a difference in the lives of young people, you can be a successful basketball coach!

You just need passion, knowledge, commitment, and some good fortune.

How can I become a basketball coach? Kiiki

Ninety percent of basketball fans, in addition to playing basketball, would like to become a basketball coach. This is because today's coaches were once yesterday's players.

Therefore, this How to Become a Basketball Coach article explains in detail the requirements to become a basketball coach, the complete guide and how much you can earn as a basketball coach.

Becoming a basketball coach will become less strict if you have the right information.

Basketball has about 825 followers and over one hundred thousand teams. In fact, the history of basketball dates back to 1891, when James Naismith, a Canadian physical education instructor, introduced it as a less injury-prone sport than football.

Becoming a basketball coach requires certain qualifications, experience, physical strength, and a performance-oriented mindset. In fact, legendary coaches are known for their resilient spirit and drive to achieve their goals.

The table of contents below contains a number of frequently asked questions about becoming a basketball coach, which are properly answered in this article.

At its core, sport is physical activity performed according to an agreed set of rules for the purpose of recreation. It can be competition or self-gratification or a combination of both.

Whereas, a game is a recreational activity involving one or more players determined by a goal that the players are trying to achieve within some set of rules.

Thus, the difference in purpose distinguishes sport from play in combination with the notion of individual skill or mastery. While games are primarily played for fun or pleasure, sports can be competitive or for personal enjoyment.

Basketball is a sport because it is a physical activity played according to set rules, and a game because it is fun.

Basketball is a team sport in which two teams, usually consisting of five players each, play against each other on a rectangular court. Its origins date back to 1891, when James Naismith invented the game as a less-injury sport.

Two teams of five players each. So, we have ten players on the court at the same time, and a maximum of seven on the bench.

Usually in a game, one team tries to prevent the other team's players from scoring. However, each normal score is two points, and if a player shoots the ball into the hoop from behind a large arc-shaped line on the court called the "three-point line", three points are scored.

In addition, there are several officials in this game who do not belong to any of the teams, but are ready to help. These are the judge, referee, timekeeper, scorer and shot clock operator.

SEE ALSO: Best Football Prep Schools in the USA | Ratings

Every sport or game needs players and someone to guide and teach the skills for how these players should excel on the field. These teachers or directors are called coaches.

In this way, a professional basketball coach teaches professional basketball players all the skills they need to succeed on the court.

In addition, a professional basketball coach conducts training, selection of players and conducts games during games. They often analyze the strengths and weaknesses of their team as well as their opponents.

In addition, professional basketball coaches also evaluate and track individual performance and create games that capitalize on the strengths of their players. They can work hand in hand with assistant coaches to bring out the best in their players.

Finally, most professional basketball coaches started out and became record-breaking high school basketball coaches or even coached college and high school basketball. Some of the legendary basketball coaches include

Jim Calhoun

Winning over 600 games in four final four games, he won national championship titles. In addition, Jim Calhoun turned the Connecticut Huskies into one of the elite college basketball programs. As a result, his legendary and professional basketball coach won over 600 games. In 2005, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Subsequently, six years later at 68, he became the oldest coach in Division 1 history with a national title.

Dean Smith

Similarly, Smith is one of the greatest innovators in college basketball. Apparently, he is the developer of the Four Corners crime. In addition, Smith turned the Tar heels into one of the most successful basketball programs in the country after taking over in 1961.
He compiled 870 wins and 11 final fours, as well as two national championships. In addition, almost 97 percent of its athletes received a degree.

Bobby Knight

This Hall of Famer coach is known for his edgy style, nicknamed The General; Bobby is the second-best winning coach in Division I men's basketball.
In fact, this legendary professional coach has 902 career victories. In addition, he led the American team to a gold medal at the 1979 Pan America Games and 1984 Olympics.
In addition, the Indiana Hoosiers turned into a perennial powerhouse, reaching five of Bobby Knight's Final Fours. In addition, he also won three national championships.

SEE ALSO: 15 Largest College Football Stadiums in the US | 2021

A high school basketball coach is a coach who works with basketball teams at the high school level. Thus, the high school basketball coach will perform all the activities and duties of a coach for the high school team.

Basketball is one of the games for recreation, entertainment and sports among schoolchildren. Basically, former students often become basketball coaches.

In addition, these professionals are in high demand today, so you can try to become a school basketball coach for girls or boys. However, you may need the following to start your career as a high school basketball head coach.

• Continue
• Cover letter
• Portfolio
• Interview

In essence, you should include the following information in your portfolio

• Why are you interested in the position of
• What is your philosophy of coaching
• of the great coach
• Your communication style
• Your strengths
• Development of player
• your goals for the program
• Academics

NBA?

NBA stands for National Basketball Association. First, finding such a position is not easy. Becoming an NBA coach is exciting but hard, landing hard. However, it is still possible0003

Second, basketball coaches hired by this association become NBA coaches. Mostly, these coaches had to work as college basketball coaches, high school basketball coaches, and more importantly, professional basketball coaches.

Third, according to a business insider, all NBA coaches agree that two things are important. One is networking and the other boasts a strong resume. In addition, different path to the NBA following stories Coaches and players will also help you move up the career ladder.

There are no minimum education requirements to become a professional basketball coach. However, many coaches begin their careers at the high school or collegiate level, and these positions may require a bachelor's degree.

You can also take a bachelor's degree program that includes physical education and exercise.

You should expect and excel in coursework that covers fitness and wellness throughout life, anatomy and physiology, and motor development. Subsequently, you can also learn how to earn online certifications in sports history, rules and strategies.

In addition, you need all the experience you can get to advance in this career. Basically, you may need an assistant basketball coach in college and high school.

In addition, you can try to gain experience as a head coach in smaller schools and programs before moving on to larger opportunities and teams.

First, most high school basketball players go to coach after high school. To be a college or high school basketball coach, you must have a keen interest in this career. Also, you can check out other 9 high paying careers0016 too.

• Prioritize the well-being of the individual
• Provide services only in areas of competence
• Issue public statements truthfully and objectively
• Law with a high level of personal conduct
• Remain proficient in professional practice and performance of professional duties
• Maintain professional integrity

  In addition, to obtain an online certificate in sports training from Columbia University : This will cost you an average of $480/semester credit hour.

  Step 2: Gain coaching experience

  In fact, before you can get the opportunity to work as an assistant coach, you need to have coaching experience. So, you need to start working with basketball teams at different levels. It is advisable to volunteer in high school, high school, or even on a college team as a team manager.

  Actually, learn to watch as many game tapes as possible. This will help you understand, break down the actions and strategies of teams and players.

  In addition, both volunteer and game recordings will teach you how to reorganize various attacks and defenses. This is essential to becoming a basketball coach in both high school and college.

  Step 3rd: Working as an Assistant Basketball Coach

  Basically, to become a basketball coach, you must start your career as an assistant basketball coach. This is easier to get as support jobs are on the rise. However, this can lead to increased liability.

  At this stage, you should work more closely with the players individually before and after practice to help them improve their basketball skills.

  4th step: get certified

  The degree is excellent accompanied by experience as a basketball coach, but certifications are very important. Basically, certification programs deal with a selected part of a broad area.

  So while a degree in physical education is great, certifications in CPR, first aid, and coaching may be required for coaches looking to work in public junior or non-teaching staff at the school.

  Step 5: Grow your career path.

  You are now a certified basketball coach and can serve as a head coach at public high schools, high schools, and colleges. Since most high school coaches work part-time and do not receive the salary or benefits of a full-time coach, you should consider moving to college or professional basketball.

  However, this may require many years of experience and the successful work of your team,

  In fact, you have to keep winning and chasing big opportunities until you join the Naismith Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame.

  How much does a basketball coach earn?

  Basketball coaches earn an average of $100,000 when they work with small school teams.

  However, coaches at any of the highest paying schools in the NCAA earn about $1 million or more a year.

  How to become a basketball coach

  Basketball coach salaries vary depending on your current employer, team level, qualifications and experience. . For example, of the 65 teams that competed in the 2014 Men's National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) tournament.
  In general, the coach with the lowest earnings earned about $171,000.
  Also, in the professional league, according to CBSSPorts.com, the average salary is about $3.05 million.

  A high school basketball coach is a coach who works with basketball teams at the high school level. Thus, the high school basketball coach will perform all the activities and duties of a coach for the high school team.

  To be a college basketball coach, the level you want to coach will determine the degree requirements.
  Basically, at Div:1 level, you just need a degree. However, as you progress to the lower level, many schools are looking for a master's degree applicant.
  In addition to your qualifications, it is important to note that coaching is based on contacts, not knowledge. So you need a strong resume and a network connection too.
  

  Conclusion

  Basketball is an interesting game and being a basketball coach is also an interesting career path. This World Scholarship Forum article explains the main difference between a game and a sport,

  Although there is a difference, this post explains why basketball is both a sport and a game.

  In addition, it sheds light on who basketball coaches are, their various levels, and a detailed guide on how to become one.

  Basically, you may first need to show interest in a career to become a basketball coach. In addition, you will need a bachelor's degree and a certificate with extensive experience to succeed in this coaching career.

  This post also shows tips on how to become a high school and college basketball coach. The FAQ answers how much you can earn coaching a basketball team.

  Finally, it lists communication, leadership ability, attention to detail, and a thorough knowledge of basketball and its rules as key skills for a basketball coach at both the high school and college levels.

  Get all the requirements and start your career path to greatness. See you in the Hall of Fame.

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  How to Become a Basketball Coach • BUOM

  By Indeed Editorial Team

  2 February 2021

  All professional athletes rise through the ranks under the guidance of a coach. Regardless of the sport, a coach has a unique ability to improve players' skills and help them become more confident in their game. A basketball coach can help a player through the season or prepare him for the professional level.

  In this article, we will explain what a basketball coach is and what he does, talk about the average salary of basketball coaches in the country, explain how to become a basketball coach, and answer some frequently asked questions about the job.

  What is a basketball coach?

  A basketball coach is a person who guides a player or group of players during a game of basketball. They teach students how to play the game, strategize with them during competitions, help build skills and inspire. A basketball coach can work with players of different levels, from very young to professional athletes. Basketball coaches need to be excellent communicators, be patient, have strong leadership skills, and know the game of basketball well.

  Most basketball coaches who work in the school system also teach a school subject, but it is possible to work as a basketball coach part-time in elementary or high school, or full-time without additional responsibilities at the college level and beyond.

  What does a professional basketball coach do?

  Being a professional basketball coach is a lot and has a lot of responsibilities. A basketball coach at any level is responsible for:

  • Teaching your team how to play basketball, including basic skills, rules and various strategies.

  • Make sure all players work together as a team and that everyone values ​​the team more than their own individual accomplishments.

  • Organization of training sessions so that players can improve their skills

  • Training of players who may need individual assistance outside of a team environment

  • Create strategies to use on the court depending on the skill level of the players and the team they are playing against.

  • Being a motivator and leader for the team and all players

  • Identifying each player's strengths and weaknesses and addressing them accordingly

  • Making quick decisions during the game for things like changing players

    0 Prevention, assessment and treatment of injuries

  • Promote teamwork and good sportsmanship and share the importance of friendly competition.

  Average basketball coach salary

  The average national basketball coach salary in the US is $48,590 per year. This salary may vary depending on your years of experience and the city and state in which you work as a basketball coach.

  For example, in Atlanta, Georgia, the average salary of basketball coaches is $61,480 per year, and in New York, New York, basketball coaches are reported to earn an average of $44,843 per year.

  Some common advantages that basketball coaches can use are:

  • Flexible schedule

  • Medical insurance

  • Sports

  • Paul housing

  00 403 (B) (B) (B)

  • Professional development assistance

  • Disability insurance

  • Life insurance

  • Access to the recreation program

  • Dental insurance 9,0003

  • Savings account of health

  • AD & D Insurance

  How to become a basketball coach of the basketball, 1.

  Get a high school diploma

  Depending on the level at which you intend to teach, you may only need a high school diploma or equivalent to work as a basketball coach. If you do not have a high school diploma, a GED will be sufficient in most cases.

  2. Get a bachelor's degree

  Most employers require you to have a bachelor's degree in order to be a basketball coach. A degree in education is preferred, but you may want to consider additional physical education or athletic training if available. You can also specialize in areas such as physical education, exercise or sports medicine.

  While in college, try to play for the high school team to gain experience and develop your skills. This will help you save the position later. You may also aspire to become a team manager, which will help you develop your leadership qualities.

  3. Decide what level you want to coach

  Basketball coaches can work directly with many age groups, from elementary school to professional level. One of the first steps to becoming a basketball coach is knowing what your ideal career path is. You may find that your love of the game means that the level of your athletes doesn't matter, or you may prefer to work with players who are a bit more experienced and willing to try their hand at the professional level.

  If you're talking about a certain level of skill, it might help you choose a career or open up some opportunities for extra learning outside of your main job, like in a sports league.

  4. Play Basketball

  Many basketball coaches love the game and become basketball coaches because they grew up playing the sport. While many may have formed teams with neighborhood kids in their youth, many others played at school. While not required to be a successful basketball coach, you must be able to demonstrate knowledge of the game and demonstrate certain skills that you can teach others, and probably the best way to do this is to experience the game in person.

  5. Become a Volunteer Coach

  When you get your degree, look into volunteering at local schools or sports leagues as a second basketball coach. This will give you experience and help you connect with those who work at the school. These same contacts can connect you to post-graduation employment opportunities either at the same location where you volunteered or at a nearby school.

  6. Take education-related courses

  Your employer may still hire you without a bachelor's degree in education, but without it, you may have to take education-related courses if you want to work in the school system. These courses will prepare you to work in an educational environment, including how to create and manage a curriculum, and the different ways your student base can learn.

  7. Get certified in your state

  Each state has specific rules it must follow before certifying professionals as teachers and coaches. Contact your state Board of Education to determine what you need to do to get approved to teach and coach. You may have to work a certain number of hours at school under the guidance of a mentor and demonstrate that you have certain skills and knowledge.

  In addition to teaching certification, you may be required to be certified in CPR and first aid to help students with medical emergencies.

  8. Working With Experienced Coaches

  You may want to ask experienced coaches to guide you as you begin your basketball coaching career. They can provide valuable insight into the training of players in the sport. Get guidance and ask them questions so you can get different perspectives on the job and how they were able to succeed.

  6. Apply for a job

  Search online for basketball coach jobs. You can search the Internet for job boards or even visit local gyms or recreation centers to see if they need a coach. Youth or senior basketball leagues often need coaches during the season, so you can look for jobs in the leagues in your area.

  Frequently Asked Questions and Answers on Becoming a Basketball Coach

  Here are some frequently asked questions about becoming a Basketball Coach:

  Are basketball coaches required to wear suits?

  Whether or not you need to wear a suit to work depends on your employer.

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