How To Become A Youth Basketball Coach

Making the decision to become a coach is already an important step. Now, you can focus your energy on everything you need to do to be the best possible coach. Many people get into coaching basketball because they grew up playing and want to continue to be around the sport. Others may love the x’s and o’s of the game and want to teach young players everything there is about the game. Some people get into coaching because they want to give back. Whatever your reason is, you’re taking a huge step forward in shaping the the future of many young athletes.

So now, how do you actually become a youth basketball coach?

Ask yourself: Why do I want to coach?

Answering this question is important. Just like starting any new profession, you want to know your “why.” Figure out what drew you to coaching and remind yourself to come back to that when times get difficult. This may also help you decide what level you want to coach at. If you want to coach to have fun, sticking with younger kids who are just trying to experience the game and have a good time is probably the right fit. If you are looking to win championships and reach the highest level, look for older kids and programs with a history of success.

Learn the landscape.

Every state, neighborhood, and town differs in their basketball offerings. Immerse yourself in the landscape by understanding the levels, coaching requirements, and pathways. Once you get a feel for where coaches coach and players play it will allow you to choose a program to work at.

Find a coach to coach you.

Mentorship is a big part of coaching. The best coaches often have coaches helping them. If there is an influential person who got you into coaching ask if they can be your sound board and be a sponge: absorb everything they throw at you. If you are in need of a mentor, look around at local organizations, camps, clinics and programs. Most coaches are incredibly passionate about what they do and would love to help an aspiring coach.

Volunteer.

Many coaches get started out by volunteering. Although it doesn’t pay the bills, it does help you get your foot in the door. See if you can volunteer at a local program and make sure you like it before you take on a head or assistant coaching position. Volunteering is also an amazing way to get to know the community and build relationships.

Look for an assistant position.

After you gained some experience volunteering or helping out at some clinics and camps, look out for any assistant position openings. Assistant jobs are a great spot to learn everything, without the necessary experience and pressure of a head coaching role. Most basketball coaches have assistant positions to help with tactics and specific skill training.

If you are looking to become a basketball coach, we hope that these tips will help you on your journey. Don’t forget that you can get your team on TeamSnap to make your management duties easier. Already coaching, sign-up for a demo to learn more!