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YMCA of Central Stark County

To put Christian Principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Become a Coach

COACH CORNER

The YMCA wouldn't be the same without our volunteers, and with our YMCA youth sports programs, it's no exception. Coaching at the Y allows you to make a difference in your community and in the lives of many children. We value your involvement in the program and your impact on influencing positive growth and development of young people. 

We believe that a YMCA youth sports program is only as strong as its coaches, and that is why we want you to have all the tools needed for a successful program. Below you will find manuals and other pertinent information. If after looking over all the information you have questions, contact us at Email

Steps to be Y Coach:

  1. Fill out the volunteer application (be sure to include 3 references) and complete the request for background check. Once you have completed the volunteer application you will receive an email from Applicant Pro that you must respond to which gives the YMCA permission to run the background check. No persons are permitted to coach until a completed background check has been received. Please note that a completed background check will be required every 12 months. 
  2. Create an account at GreatAcademy to complete the trainings listed below. Once your account is created, an email will be send to the Regional Sports Directors to approve and assign the appropriate trainings. 
    TRAINING COURSE
    Concussion CertificationValid for 3 Years

    YUSA Safe Sport Trainings: 
    Athlete Protection & Duty to Report

    Valid for 1 Year

    Lindsay's Law (Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Youth Athletes)

    Valid for 1 Year

    YMCA Coaches Code of Conduct

    Valid for 1 Year

FAQ

What are the expectations and time commitment of being a coach?

Each team will practice for one hour on one night each week or two nights a week (practice amount depends on sport/location). The Sports Director will work with you to make sure that each coach has a practice on a night and time that is convenient. There will also be a one-hour game (typically on Saturday). Game times may fluctuate from week to week, but a schedule will be distributed prior to the start of the season. You are expected to attend each practice and each game if at all possible. You will need to arrive early and have prepared skills and drills for each practice.

How do I request a practice day or time?

You may volunteer to coach by contacting the Sports Director or by indicating your interest on the registration form. You will then be contacted by a member of the sports staff to discuss your interest in head coaching or assisting. The sports staff will contact you prior to or just after the end of registration. You will then be able to determine night and time that you can practice that will be convenient with your schedule. 

What if I can't be at a practice or game?

If you cannot attend a practice or a game, please contact the YMCA Sports Director ahead of time to let him/her know of your absence. Also, please attempt to find a parent that is willing to step in for you for that particular day. The YMCA keeps a record of all coaches, assistant coaches, and fill-in parents. Please pass on to the Director the name of the parent that is filling in for you. 

Who cancels practices and games?

A decision to cancel practices and games due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances will be made by the YMCA. If you need to cancel your practice, you must contact the sports director and your team prior to the day your practice is scheduled. If at all possible, please hold your practice with a substitute instead of canceling. 

Can I switch my practice day or time?

If you have a schedule conflict and would like to switch your practice for one week, you need to contact the sports director to arrange a switch for that week. If you need to reschedule your practice day/time prior to the end of registration, the sports director may be able to accommodate you. Practice times cannot be changed after the end of registration because teams are already being built and players placed on teams in accordance with their requests. 

What equipment is provided?

Equipment provided varies based on the sport and Y location. 

What are the rules?

League rules vary based on the sport and Y location. 

Can I request players?

Yes. All participants are allowed to request a teammate or coach. Coaches may request players as well. We cannot guarantee that all requests will be granted. 

When do I get my team rosters?

You will receive your team roster at the preseason coaches meeting or prior to the first week of practice via email. You are expected to call/email all of your players by a set date and inform them of your practice night/time and when the season starts. 

Why do I have to complete a background check annually if I coach year after year?

Because the YMCA of Central Stark County strives to provide a safe environment for children and youth, the YMCA performs mandatory annual background checks on all volunteer coaches. 

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?

For more specific information, please contact us at Email