Coaching is a volunteer role that comes with added responsibilities both on and off the field or court of play. Each specific interschool activity page outlines the exact qualifications and first aid certifications required by coaches at both the elementary and secondary level. In addition, further supports are provided in the OPASSE Tools and Resources.
Qualifications range from National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) levels, attendance at a workshop or clinic or experience coaching the particular sport in the last 3 years. First Aid ranges from providing emergency response to being certified with Standard First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) depending on the type and level of risk of the activity.
Under Tools and Resources, OPASSE has created a section on Coaching Expectations. Included in this section are:
- Coaches Responsibilities, that provides a step-by-step list to help address all areas of safety needed prior to the start of each season; and
- Game Protocol, that reminds coaches to review their school/board athletic association handbook for rules and regulations around behaviour of student athletes and interacting with officials;
- Parents/Guardians and Student Communication, that reminds coaches of the importance of communication, and provides key points of communication (e.g., schedule of practice and games, transportation) and provided with a sample letter to use at the start of each season.
- Training Procedures that provides reminders and guidelines to prepare student athletes with the appropriate skills and knowledge of rules required for safe competition.