April 11, 2012 (Toronto, ON) – Teach a skill. Inspire the next Crosby. Be a role model. Because I had a coach that made a difference in my life. There are a million reasons to coach and the Coaches Association of Ontario is asking coaches to share their reason during Ontario Coaches Week from April 14-22nd where dozens of communities across the province will be celebrating the men and women who volunteer their time to build better citizens.
“Ontario Coaches Week is about inspiring new community leaders to take up coaching,” says Susan Kitchen, Executive Director, Coaches Association of Ontario. “There are many intrinsic rewards that come from being a coach. Introducing a young person to a sport you love has returns that last a life time.”
Twenty-five Ontario communities are hosting free National Coaching Certification Program workshops, and many other communities are recognizing the men and women who coach in their clubs, arenas and recreation centres. Whether your sport is swimming, fencing or baseball, get involved in your community through coaching.
“Ontario is committed to being a leader in sport development and we look to our coaches to continue to inspire all athletes to give their best. I commend everyone taking part in this week’s activities. Your role is vital in taking us to the forefront of athletic excellence while encouraging Ontarians to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.” – Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport.
Individuals can take up coaching even if they are not highly athletic people with extensive sport backgrounds. Good communication skills, planning and organizing activities and having a positive attitude are the most fundamental skills a coach needs.
Throughout the week, free workshops will target new coaches including aboriginals, women and youth.
Activities for Ontario Coaches Week 2012 include:
– NCCP Free Days, delivering National Coaching Certification Program courses for up to 500 coaches in 25 communities.
– Kick-Off Celebration: 2012 Ontario Coaching Excellence Awards – Scotia Bank Theatre, Toronto
– FREE Getting Started Coaching Resources on www.coachesontario.ca
– Week long celebration of community coaches across the province.
The week-long celebration is funded by Sport Canada and the Ontario’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Visit www.coachesontario.ca for a complete listing of workshop dates and locations.
What’s Your Reason? Share your story on our facebook page or tweet using hashtags #myreason #OCW
The Coaches Association of Ontario is an independent, non-profit, coach-led organization that strengthens development opportunities and provides resources, representation and recognition for coaches in a variety of contexts. In 2012, The CAO celebrated its ten year anniversary.
Reasons For Coaching From Ontario Coaches:
I love that fact that I have a chance to be challenged every day in multiple ways! No two days are ever alike. I get to work with a great group of athletes and coaches who challenge me and I hope I challenge them to not only become better people on the court but also in every aspect of life. I love being able to help people grow and develop into amazing people doing amazing things; striving to points in their life that they may never thought possible. Seeing that transformation happen day in and day out is truly remarkable. – Michael Broughton, Provincial Head Coach, Wheelchair Basketball