“A good coach can change a game, a great coach can change a life.” John Wooden
The other day I was asked “why do I coach cycling?” and my immediate reaction was my typical attempt at being witty – “well…those who can’t, teach”. *chuckle chuckle*
Later that day I thought about this question more deeply and realised that I missed a real opportunity to share the many reasons why I coach. If you were to ask my that same question again, I might say something like this:
I coach because I think it is awesome that I might be able to play a role in helping someone find their passion in a sport that they never knew they had. I also love seeing parents watch their kids achieve something that they never thought was possible. I coach because I think that cycling (and many other sports) needs good role models for others to follow and look to. Without coaches, how can I be sure that the sports that I enjoy being a part of will still be here in years to come for others to enjoy? I coach because it requires me to take time out of my crazy-hectic life, slow down and work at the easy pace required for others to learn new skills. I get a genuine kick out of helping others to master a new skill – so be prepared, you’re almost certain to get a high five from me when this happens. I also feel that coaching has allowed me to be a better communicator and appreciate the many great things that coaches of past said and in some cases, shouldn’t have said. Most of all, I coach because it is fun.
What I have realised over time is that you don’t actually need to be an expert, have performed at an elite level or have years and years of experience under your belt…you just have to be passionate about helping others. – Chris Stace
The Armidale Cycling Club is offering passionate people the opportunity to develop the skills and obtain the necessary qualifications to pursue a coaching role in cycling.
Types of Courses
Introductory Skills Instructor (ISI)
Beginning participation and the process of skills acquisition through simple motor learning.
The Cycling Australia ISI course provides participants with an introduction to the beginner level of teaching cycling, including the planning, implementation, analysis and revision of beginner cycling skills coaching sessions. This is achieved through an understanding and application of the basic underpinning knowledge specific to cycling.
The ISI will work with community groups, clubs and schools that offer an introduction to cycling
Community Club Coach (CCC) Info
The CCC involves a primary focus on a participation to sport process by facilitating improved skills performance of a rider at club level. The CCC will have a basic understanding of kinetics and motor learning/control and their applications to cycling.
The CCC course is designed and targeted for intermediate skills coaches who assist beginner and club riders to develop their riding skills in the disciplines of road and track cycling.
Run as a 2 day course that establishes planning, implementation, analysis and revision of intermediate cycling skills coaching sessions. This is achieved through the application of the underpinning knowledge specific to intermediate skills and tactics for club to state level cycling.
The CCC is part of the club volunteer pathway and does not work within a commercial setting.
The CCC is a citizen of the club and will provide the best of evidence based skills coaching for the members of the club.
Start your coaching journey with our next Community Club Coaching Course on 21-22 September
If you would like more information, or would like to nominate yourself, please contact Chris Stace directly via email development@armidalecyclingclub.org or phone 0434 001 787. Nominations will be considered on a first in first served basis, provided you are committed to make a contribution back to the club so best get moving and let us know as soon as possible if you are interested.