Thousands of Australians are tapping into an online classroom that provides a wealth of useful tips and advice to help them take up the coaching challenge.

Over 40 000 Australians have already enrolled in the free Australian Sports Commission (ASC) Beginning Coaching General Principles online course, since its introduction in January 2007.

The course teaches all the basic skills and techniques of good coaching, including how to plan and deliver sports opportunities in a fun and safe setting, effective communication, adopting inclusive practices for all participants, and working with parents and other groups. Completion of the course provides the first step to becoming accredited as a coach.

Director of Sports Performance and Development at the ASC, Greg Nance, says that the Beginning Coaching General Principles training course is growing in popularity and extending its reach to help more Australians get into coaching.  

‘This online training course is providing a simple and easy way for Australians, particularly from rural and regional areas, to study and learn about how to become an effective coach,’ says Nance.

‘Coaches play a vital role in creating opportunities for Australians, particularly children, to enjoy the benefits of sport and physical activity. The education and training of quality and experienced coaches is crucial to the development and growth of Australian sport.

‘The ASC is committed to attracting, training and retaining coaches across all levels of Australian sport.’

The free Beginning Coaching General Principles online course takes approximately six hours to complete and can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week in a location with internet access.