Sports Coaching Minor

The sports coaching minor offers an in-depth study of the theoretical and applied nature of coaching through an integrated series of courses, based on national standards. The educational objectives of the Minor in Sports Coaching are for students to acquire knowledge of the theoretical foundations of sports coaching and the growth and development of athletes. The psychological, social, biological, and physical aspects of risk management and athletic injury will also be addressed throughout the curriculum.

Students will gain an understanding of training and conditioning programs for health and/or performance and practice in program design. Students will learn general training principles, such as periodization, adaptation, accommodation, specificity/overload, and explore effective training of the energy systems involved in physical activity and sport. Additionally, students will learn about the muscular and neuromuscular systems, physiological and performance adaptations to training, measurement and evaluation of fitness, and strategies for maximizing adaptation to training. Students will learn to apply this knowledge to improving health and/or performance in sport and physical fitness.

Students will also develop a philosophical approach and foundational knowledge that academically prepares them to coach at any competitive level and context including schools, sports clubs, community programs, colleges, or other athletic organizations.