The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a High School Basketball Coach

The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a High School Basketball Coach

By Michael Harrison

January 15, 2025 at 08:34 PM

If you're interested in becoming a high school basketball coach, there are several key requirements and steps you'll need to follow. Here's what you need to know:

Coach teaching youth basketball team

Coach teaching youth basketball team

Key Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree (typically in education or physical education)
  • Previous basketball playing or coaching experience
  • Youth coaching certification
  • Teaching credentials (in most cases)

Most high school basketball coaches are teachers who receive an additional stipend for coaching. The average salary for high school basketball coaches is $29,960, though this can vary significantly based on location and school. Teachers who coach typically earn their base teaching salary (averaging $61,000) plus a coaching stipend of around $5,000.

Steps to Become a High School Basketball Coach:

  1. Complete Your Education
  • Earn a bachelor's degree
  • Obtain necessary teaching credentials
  1. Gain Basketball Experience
  • Play college basketball (any division)
  • Or work as an intern/assistant coach
  • Develop strong understanding of the game
  1. Obtain Required Certifications
  • Youth sports coaching certification
  • CPR and first aid certification
  • State-specific coaching requirements
  • Teaching credential (if required)
  1. Build Your Career
  • Start with assistant coaching positions
  • Network within local school districts
  • Gain experience with youth basketball programs
  • Apply for open positions at schools

The most common path is to secure a teaching position first, then transition into a coaching role at the same school. This provides both job security and a stable income while pursuing your coaching career.

Success in this field requires a combination of basketball knowledge, teaching ability, and leadership skills. Focus on developing these areas while completing the necessary educational requirements.

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