Coaching hockey is a good way to stay involved in the community while being around a game you love. Not just anyone can jump behind the bench to develop the young hockey talent of the future. USA Hockey requires coaches to have appropriate certification to coach at all levels. If the coaches are prepared and well trained, the players will be too.
Eligibility
For a coach to be eligible to get behind the bench, he must produce an up-to date USA hockey coach card by Dec. 31 of the current season. If a coach does not produce the card, he is ineligible to participate in any on-ice activities beginning Jan. 1. This ban includes all games and practices.
Continuing Coaching Education
All USA hockey coaches that are certified below a level 4 must progress through the Coaching Education Program and take part in a clinic on at least one occasion every three years, through level 3. Once you receive your level 3 certification, you have three years to attend another level 3 program. You can also try the online level 3 recertification program or try a level 4 clinic. You will have no more programs to attend after level 4.
Coaching Ethics
Learning the basics and inner workings of coaching ethics is also part of the USA Hockey coaching programs. Coaches are given a booklet and are expected to exhibit integrity, competence, respect and professional responsibility when dealing with players and parents. Coaches are educated about hazing and bullying, sexual harassment and exploitation. Gambling is forbidden, as is using alcohol or tobacco products in front of players.
Coaching Different Levels
The coaching certification levels 1 through 4 exist to teach coaches the skills and tactics that correspond with the level of hockey they choose to coach. Level 1 is suitable for boys and girls younger than 8 years old. Level 2 is good for boys and girls 10 years old and under. Most of the age groups and leagues, from 12 and younger to 18 and younger, require Level 3. Level 4 is needed for Midget Tier I, II and III, Junior Tier I, II and III, and National tournament caliber women under-19.
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