Coaching Association of Canada: Empowering Coaches Across the Nation
Our Mission and Role in Canadian Sport
The Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) stands at the center of coaching development in the country. The CAC is dedicated to educating and certifying coaches while celebrating their contributions at every level of sport. Their mission is to enhance the sports experience for all participants in Canada, focusing on high-quality coaching. This is achieved through pillars such as coaching leadership and sustainable, ongoing education.
How to Become a Coach
For those looking to start their journey as a coach, the CAC provides easy access to information and guidance. Prospective coaches can learn how to become certified, access resources for learning about mental health in sport, and ensure the creation of safe sport environments. Whether at the grassroots or professional level, there is support and educational pathways for every coach.
National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP)
A cornerstone of coach education in Canada is the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). Since 1974, NCCP has offered standardized, inclusive, and sport safety education to over 2 million coaches across 65 sports. NCCP training equips coaches with skills to improve both their own abilities and the experiences of athletes at all levels, ensuring quality development across the athletic spectrum.
The Locker: Your Personal Coaching Development Platform
To support coaches on their journey, the CAC offers "The Locker," an advanced learning management system. The Locker enables coaches to access eLearning modules, track certifications, and manage development seamlessly. Creating a free account allows for straightforward access to coaching resources and individual NCCP records.
Featured Training Modules
The CAC provides a diverse range of modules designed to improve specific coaching skills and address important topics in sport:
- Coaching in Canada: Deepen your understanding of the Canadian sport system, coach expectations, and organizational roles.
- NCCP Fundamental Movement Skills: Learn strategies to cultivate foundational physical abilities in athletes of all ages.
- Anti-racism in Coaching: Gain the tools to support and advocate for racialized participants, making sport more equitable.
- NCCP Make Ethical Decisions: Acquire guidance on navigating difficult situations and upholding ethical standards in coaching.
Canadian Safe Sport Program
Safety and inclusion are core values for the CAC, highlighted in their commitment to the Canadian Safe Sport Program (CSSP). As of April 1, 2025, the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) will oversee the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS) for national sport organizations. This ensures a safe environment for all athletes and coaches, reinforcing ethical behavior and accountability in Canadian sport.
Get Involved and Find Support
Whether you are aspiring to become a coach, enhance your skills, or need guidance on safe sport practices, the Coaching Association of Canada offers comprehensive resources and a robust support system to help you succeed. By fostering a culture of learning and ethical leadership, the CAC ensures that every coach and athlete can thrive in a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment.