Future Coaches Program

Swim Alberta's 2017-2024 strategic plan provided the perfect backdrop for the introduction of the Future Coaches Program in spring of 2017. As we continue to strive towards providing our coaches with opportunities to develop alongside our strategic directions, such as to "lead and inspire a culture of professionalism," we are thrilled to make this program an annual opportunity in Alberta.

Purpose:

To design a development program for coaches and Head Coaches (outside the deliverables of the NCCP) that enhances the information, education and services available to club level coaches and Head Coaches pursuing ongoing development that provides for positive working relationships, informed decision making to support development of athletes and professional coaching improvement.

Objective:

This program will establish a learning environment for developing coaches to expand on content introduced in the NCCP program and further elaborate on topics, trends, professional skills and developing athletes. While this program does not replace the NCCP requirements, it will offer an opportunity for developing coaches to network, learn and share experiences with other like-minded individuals, supporting a mindset for growth and ongoing development.

Outcomes:

The program will focus on a capstone project for each coach. This project will be identified at the beginning of the program and will focus on their individual sport and experiences using reflection strategies. Overall outcomes for this program include the following:

Professional Growth for Coaches, reflection and self-awareness
Leadership & Communication
Integrating Sport Sciences into training
Mental Wellness and Athlete Lifestyles skills

Target Audience:

The target audience for this program are registered club coaches who have experience coaching athletes in the Learn to Train, Train to Train and Train to Compete stages of the AAD pathway who show initiative in professional growth and look to prepare for professional developmental opportunities such as tour teams, etc.

Application Process:

Applications are now being accepted for the Future Coaches Program. The application form can be found here.

Deadline is MARCH 31, 2023.

Proposed Schedule:

The program will be offered online approx.. once a month for 4 meetings and would include some online courses with deadlines. This will be determined based on availability of the majority of registrants. For example Thursday morning once a month, 8-12noon. This can be adapted if needed.

Cost of Program:

There currently is no cost for Alberta Registered Coaches.

The cost for out of province coaches is $100 (payable before session 1).

Expectations:

Full attendance in all sessions is required to participate and complete the program.
A written capstone is mandatory and due to Jackie Cool, Sport Development Director within a 2 week deadline after each online class session.

Program Overview:

This program is an opportunity for Head Coaches and Coaches to learn and improve upon professional skills that will aid them in being better coaches. Alberta coaches will have the opportunity to be considered for future Swim Alberta tours or Games opportunities that are not based on athlete selection criteria.

*Topics and presenters may change depending on availability and interest of the group.