How To Become a Hockey Coach

Step 1

Step one in becoming a hockey coach is to have a passion for teaching and the sport of hockey. To “coach” a team in hockey is no different a role than for a teacher to “teach a class.” And, much like a teacher, the coach must have a proficient knowledge of the game in order to be successful.

Step 2

Step two in becoming a hockey coach is to gain experience. Knowledge and experience of the game are absolute musts in order to become a good coach, therefore having played before or at least having knownledge of how to play the game and demonstrate techniques(run practice drills) will be necessary.

Step 3

Step three in becoming a hockey coach is determining your coaching “goals.” While coaches of youth and recreation teams do not often seek out their certification, although required, if your goal is to become a certified coach, one that can coach at higher amateur or professional levels, then you will need to seek out and complete the certification courses given by your local Hockey Federation.

Step 4

Step four in becoming a hockey coach is earning your certification. Coaching certification courses are offered in Canada by Hockey Canada, in the United States by USA Hockey, and in Europe, the International Ice-Hockey Federation (IIHF) endorses a Sports and Leisure Bachelor’s degree offered by the Sports Institute of Finland. Although these are the primary options offered by the major Ice Hockey Federations, many universities, both in Europe and North America are now offering coaching degrees through their Sports and Management programs. (For further details on the *Hockey Canada, **USA Hockey and ***IIHF certification standards, consult the special attention section below.)

Step 5

Step five in becoming a hockey coach is completing the national or international requirements of the certification processes offered by your national Ice Hockey Federations(or universities) and then maintaining that certification through renewal and recertification. Following these five steps, whether you wish to be an amateur/recreational coach or whether you aspire to become a professional or national coach, will ensure that you are on the right path to becoming a hockey coach.