How do I become a softball coach?

Coaching or extensive softball/baseball experience is not a prerequisite. Coaching may seem like a daunting task, but if you have a great attitude and want to help youngsters achieve their potential, you can be a softball coach.

Experienced coaches within West Valley are always available to provide guidance and mentorship.

West Valley has a high number of female players and teams. Women are especially encouraged to volunteer for coaching positions to help provide strong female role models for West Valley girls.

COACHING CERTIFICATION

I've volunteered to coach. What are the next steps?

Calgary Minor Softball Certification

Head coaches are required to attend Calgary Minor Softball Coaches Orientation.

Website: http://calgaryminorsoftball.com/

Calgary Police Service Clearance (valid for three years)

Calgary Police Service clearance first requires a Volunteer Letter, which can be requested from the Silver Springs Community Centre.

All applications are done online at https://www.calgary.ca/cps/public-services/police-information-checks.html

You will need two pieces of government ID saved digitally (e.g.: photo w/ camera phone), which can be uploaded.

Once you receive notification your application has been processed and completed, you MUST share this information with Calgary Minor Softball through CPS’ online system. This is NOT done automatically.

To learn more or start the process, go to Calgary Minor Softball's Security Clearance page.

Respect in Sport for Activity Leaders Certification (valid for four years)

Respect in Sport (RIS) for Activity Leaders Certification is required for all coaches and managers listed on a team's roster. The course MUST be taken prior to April 1 of the current year.

The Respect in Sport Program is an online certification program designed to protect our youth as well as enhance Calgary Minor Softball of providing a safe and fun environment for all our participants. It is Canada’s leading online bullying, abuse, harassment, and negligence prevention program for parents, coaches, and community leaders.

The course is taken online and requires about three (3) hours to complete. Certification is valid for four years, at which point you will be given a notification for renewal if you are registered to coach or manage. If a coach has current RIS certification from another sport, (e.g.: hockey) they are not required to reapply for certification.

CLICK HERE to LEARN more about the program on the Respect Group's official website.
CLICK HERE to TAKE the Activity Leader (Coach) course through Calgary Minor Softball.

NOTE: The course cannot be taken through the Respect Group's official website. You must access it through the Calgary Minor Softball website.

Step 4: Category (Age Division) Meeting Attendance (annual)

At least one member of each team's coaching staff is required to attend the appropriate age division meeting. The meeting is typically held on a weeknight 2-3 weeks prior to the beginning of the season. The meeting covers any rule changes, rule emphasis or housekeeping items related to the season. It is also an excellent opportunity to meet other coaches you may see throughout the season.

Advanced – For premier, division 1 and teams planning to participate in Provincials

Softball Canada Coach Certification:

Coaches planning to participate in provincials must obtain certification through Softball Canada's National Coach Certification Program (NCCP).

NCCP certification is recommended for coaches interested in coaching any premier or division 1 team. It is also recommended for any team U14 or above.

Certification is obtained through coach.ca.