contributed by Kevin Reilly
In a highly competitive job market, preparation, patience and a positive attitude all play a role in obtaining a coaching position at the high school or college level.
Nowadays, a college degree is a necessity for almost every line of work, and coaching is no different. So hit the books and get yourself a degree. In particular, majors such as physical education, secondary education or a minor in coaching preparation are a common ground for successful coaches.
A graduate degree is often necessary at the college level and won't hurt at the scholastic level. While in grad school, pursuing an opportunity to work in the athletic program as a graduate-assistant coach is one of the most effective things you can do in chasing your dream. While acquiring a master's degree at Springfield College I was fortunate to coach junior varsity basketball under Dr. Ed Bilik (who is now the rules interpreter for the NCAA).
Some other things that can help you in your pursuit of a coaching job is experience as a player, being a team manager of your college team, studying the x's and o's of your particular sport, and most importantly, summer camp work.
After college, I spent every summer traveling the northeastern United States and got the opportunity to learn from such coaches as PJ Carlesimo, Rick Pitino, Don Nelson, Jeff Van Gundy and even some lesser-known coaches as Brian Hammel (now head coach of Northern Illinois) and Gordon Chiesa (Assistant Coach, Utah Jazz).
You can learn from everyone, pick coaches brains and develop your style and philosophy. Networking and getting to meet people in the coaching profession can help you immensely. The old adage is often true "It's who you know not what you know that can help you."
Have confidence in your abilities and stick to your philosophy. Be prepared for different situations on and off the court or field. Some coaches have stated that they were "born" to coach. Don't let them fool you. It takes a lot of work.
I remember working a basketball camp with Jeff Van Gundy when he was a high school coach and less than 10 years later he was the head coach of the N.Y. Knicks, How did he get there? By networking, studying the game, and most importantly, working his tail off.
Who knows? Perhaps what happened to him can happen to you.