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Selection of Coaches

The initial selection of coaches is vital if an athletic program is to reflect Christian values. A coach should not be selected purely for his/her knowledge of sports, but rather as a potential youth minister who will reflect and model the Gospel values that should be incorporated into the athletic program.
The Head Coach of each team will be held responsible for all actions of assistant coaches, game personnel and fans/spectators. In the absence of a game administrator, the head coach will have to assume those responsibilities.

Criteria for selection of coaches must include:

  • Model Christian
  • Emotionally stable & responsible
  • Interested in working with young people to build their confidence, while being sensitive to their differences
  • Knowledge of sport and skills necessary to be successful
  • Knowledge of PAA rules and regulations
  • Approval of the Pastor, and/or Principal
  • Criminal background check on file at Diocesan Office (or member organization’s administrative office if not associated with the Catholic Diocese of Memphis).
  • VIRTUS® training completed
  • Completed Concussion and Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Certification.
  • It is recommended that at least one coach of each team be currently certified in CPR and First Aid.
 
 

A Good Coach

  • Understands the rules and instructs his/her players accordingly
  • Controls his/her emotions
  • Knows when and who to substitute
  • Speaks in a manner and tone appropriate for his/her position
  • Realizes players never purposely make mistakes and never ridicules
  • Concentrates on coaching and lets the officials call the game
  • Is fair and does not show favoritism
  • Sets realistic practice and game schedules
  • Never permits an ill or injured player to practice or play
  • Insists that a team practice with the same enthusiasm and skill as demonstrated during a scheduled game
  • Uses ALL players in practice and in games
  • Never deliberately humiliates an opponent by pushing up the score
  • Insists that players accept victory with modesty and defeat without alibi.
  • Does not review a game immediately after the final whistle when emotions are high, but saves detailed comments for the next practice
  • Realizes a team’s reputation is built not only on its playing ability, but also on its sportsmanship, courtesy, and manner.​

Catholic School Coach’s Pledge

Upon my honor as a Catholic school coach, I pledge myself to the following:
  • To guide each player to be a better Christian & better citizen;
  • To be ethical and sportsmanlike in my coaching conduct toward all players, officials, fans, and other coaches;
  • To motivate each player to compete according to the rules at all times;
  • To teach each player, especially through my own example, to be humble and generous in victory and proud and courteous in defeat