Jason McManus

11 ways to make coaching more attractive It seems most schools are always looking for coaches. Here are some ideas to help recruit and retain coaches... #11 – Promote the teaching profession Teaching is tough, but some districts make it more attractive than others. Which districts will find ways to support teachers to entice people to want to be in their district? These are the districts that will have more coaches as well. #10 – Better plans for non-certified coaches Each state is different, but you may need to look at “out of the box” ideas on coaches that are not teachers. Most coaches are teachers, but think of some innovative ways to explore options for those that do not want to be teachers. #9 – Change the summer and weekends Expectations for coaches to work all weekend and all summer are not helping increase coaches. Find ways to let coaches see their families more. Find jobs that affect winning and get those done in an efficient and effective manner. #8 – Change the pay structure I completely understand how funding works, but you must find a way to pay more if you expect more. Everything costs more and people are not staying in coaching for the love of the game as much. Love of the game didn't pay anyone's rent. #7 – Change building responsibilities & expectations If you can't pay more, can you give less duties/responsibilities to reward them for committing to students after the school day is over? You must find a way to entice people to continue to work with students after school hours. #6 – Consistency from administration Even though pay and time are big issues, lack of support is an issue too. We need consistency in how administration handles parent concerns, student issues, etc. Districts should support coaches through the entire chain of command. #5 – Be realistic with the number of coaches needed Some have more than others, but you may have to find ways to do more with less coaches. Also, make it more attractive to be the 4th coach at your school than the 20th coach at the traditionally good school. #4 - Limit the Coach-on-Coach public fights The constant complaining on social media or belittling of others in the profession is not helpful to fixing the coaching shortage problem. We need to focus on the positive things in the profession and handle any issues privately. #3 – Set the standard for integrity We need men and women of integrity in the coaching profession that set the standard for coaches and inspire others to want to do the job, despite the hurdles. #2 – Promote the good There are so many great things about coaching. Spread the word. You get to impact students in a way teachers rarely can. Students will be talking about you with their friends for years to come. They will invite you to weddings, etc. Changing lives is special. #1 – More Coaching Education programs Teachers take many classes. They do student-teaching and have support before, during, and after they are hired.  Coaches often do not. Better education programs after the hire will help coaches stay in the profession longer!