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September 20, 2024
Each year, thousands of people across Canada take part in National Coaches Week (Sep 16-22) to celebrate the positive impact coaches have on athletes and communities across the country. The annual campaign is an opportunity to say thank you and recognize coaches for their time, effort and generosity. This year marks 10 years of the initiative which is inviting people to share their positive coach experiences on social media through the hashtag #ThanksCoach.
There are approximately one million sports coaches in the country. They are considered to be a vital part of the Canadian sports systems and their impact on athletes is significant. Coaching has also made a significant contribution to volunteerism in Canada. The National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) provides training and education to coaches in 65 sports while the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) ensures that coaches adhere to high standards of ethical and professional conduct. Additionally, Since 1974, more than two million coaches have participated in the NCCP.
National Coaches Week is organized by the CAC, which aims to improve coaching skills and increase the recognition of coaches. However, the week-long campaign is a collaborative effort between the CAC, National Sport Organizations (NSOs), Provincial/ Territorial Sport Organizations (P/TSOs) and Aboriginal Sport Bodies (ASBs), along with Provincial and Territorial Coaching Representatives (P/TCRs), as well as many clubs, organizations and millions of athletes across Canada.
“National Coaches Week is a key opportunity to shine a light on coaches who have had a significant impact on their athletes and participants, their teams and their communities,” says Lorraine Lafrenière, CEO of the CAC. “As we celebrate the 10th year of the campaign, we acknowledge the continued dedication of coaches to build resiliency as leaders in sport development throughout the country.”
During the week, coaches have been able to diversify their coaching knowledge with free or discounted NCCP eLearning modules. Topics include creating a positive sports environment, sports nutrition and coaching athletes with disabilities.
“The Government of Canada recognizes the important contribution of coaches to the sport system in Canada,” says The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Physical Activity. “This year is a milestone anniversary of the week, and an important time to recognize coaches for their continued commitment off and on the fields of play. I ask all Canadians to join me in saying, Thanks Coach!”
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