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Coaches Program

The CAF Sports Program has partnered with The Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) to provide standardized qualifications for CAF coaches and administrators to ensure a safe atmosphere for all participants.  

Having certfied coaches brings creditability to the CAF Sports program, brings visibility to the CAF from external associations (i.e. sports governing bodies, municipalities, etc.), and elevates the quality of the CAF Sports Program. 

The CAF Coaches Program offers a variety of courses through their partnership with the CAC to CAF members and full time NPF employees to develop certified coaches to prepare them to support CAF athletes at all levels of sporting events. In order to achieve this, the CAF Sports Office (CAFSO) has provided a list of minimum certifications required for coaches and administrators supporting CAF sport programs.  
 
Upon completion of each course, coaches and administrators will gain leadership skills and professional development points in their locker with Coach.ca under their National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) account. 
 
It is expected that CAF Coaches who receive funding from the CAFSO will commit their coaching services to a CAF Sports Team (local/Regional/National/International) for a minimum of one year and/or season. Potential sports include but are not limited to; badminton, ball hockey, basketball curling, fencing, golf, grappling, hockey, running, slo-pitch, squash, swimming & lifesaving, taekwondo, triathlon, and volleyball.


Registration

  • How to Register
    Individuals may go to Coach.ca “The Locker” and login (or create account) to begin their online learning and/or reach out to their Provincial Territorial Coaching Representative (PTCR). Once complete please follow the step below for potential reimbursement. 
  • Funding & Reimbursement
    Minimum certifications are covered by the CAFSO through the members respective local PSP Base Sports Coordinator. Upon successful completion, individuals are to fill out this form, attached receipts and provide them to their local PSP Base Sports Coordinator for reimbursement. 
  • Minimum Certifications

    Mandatory Coaching Courses

    At minimum one person on any eligibility roster at Regional and/or National Sport Championship must have mandatory courses completed. This only relates to team sports (All Hockey, Volleyball, Basketball Slo-Pitch & Soccer):

    • Safe Sport Training
    • Making Headway
    • Emergency Action Plan

    Recommended Coaching Courses

    If a non-playing coach has the mandatory and recommended courses completed, they will have the ability to obtain a maximum of one spot on the eligibility certificate at Regional and National Sport Championships. This only relates to team sports (All Hockey, Volleyball, Basketball Slo-Pitch & Soccer):

    • Make Ethical Decisions
    • Planning a Practice

Coaches' Testimonials


Our coaches are at the heart of the PSP program. We asked them to share what inspired them to start coaching, what coaching has brought to their lives, and how it continues to shape their journey. Here are some of their reflections, in their own words.

Lifting weight

Coach's voice - Ontario

''Coaching is one of the most rewarding ways to lead and serve. It challenges you to grow as a communicator, problem-solver, and role model.''
Sport Equipment

Coach's voice - Atlantic

''I had coaches who believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself, and their impact stayed with me. I wanted to offer that same encouragement and guidance to others—to help them push boundaries and enjoy the process of growth.''
Man running

Coach's voice - Quebec

''Coaching is way more than just sports, it’s about leadership, setting the example, mentorship, and service to others. If you’re passionate about helping others grow, staying connected to your sport, and making a lasting impact, coaching is one of the most fulfilling ways to do it.''
Sport shoes

Coach's voice - Canada West

“My favorite part of coaching is unlocking player potential, when that "aha moment" happens and my player starts moving the ball around with clarity, focus and purpose.”