BEGINNER COACH – the Heart of a Good Club.

“Beginner Coach” is the first level of accreditation granted by the Australian Sports Commission in their National Coaching Accreditation Scheme.

The title was a poor choice by the ASC as it gives the impression that the coach is a mere beginner, whereas it is intended to indicate that here is a coach who is trained to introduce beginners to their sport and give them a sound basis for later development of their career.

It is your Beginner Coach who takes potential new members in hand, makes them feel wanted, relaxed and comfortable, and then introduces them to their game of choice. 

That is, the game they want to play – not the one you want them to play. 

 It this interaction between Beginner Coach and newcomer that decides whether or not you win a new member.

It follows that not everybody can successfully coach beginners.

 Apart from their personality and technical skills, coaches must also be prepared to give up their time, including playing time, to nurture new players. 

 Only truly dedicated club members take up coaching.

A note for club committees: look after your Beginner Coaches – you need them more than they need you!

 John AngusState Coaching Director.