Introduction to Coaching Course
A one-day, practical coaching course for people who help out — or would like to help out — around their club.
A practical first step — with no pressure to commit
The Introduction to Coaching Course is a one-day, practical course for people who want to feel more confident supporting rowing activity in their club.
You do not need to be an experienced rower or to have plans to become a coach.
Who this course is for
This course is for people who help out — or would like to help out — around their club, including parents, volunteers, new and developing members, and junior rowers aged 16+ as part of their personal development.
No prior coaching experience is required.
What you’ll learn
You’ll learn how rowing sessions are structured, how people learn new skills, and how to support qualified coaches during sessions. The course also covers safe and positive ways to help beginners, clear communication, and basic coaching roles and boundaries.
What you gain
Participants typically leave with:
- Greater confidence working with others
- A clearer understanding of how clubs operate
- Practical skills that can be used immediately
For junior participants (16+), the course also supports confidence, responsibility, and leadership skills.
A flexible starting point
This course is a supported introduction, not a long-term commitment.
Some participants progress to further coach education.
Many do not — both outcomes are valued.
How clubs benefit
When more people understand how sessions work and feel confident supporting activity, clubs become safer, more resilient, and less reliant on a small number of individuals.
Certification:
– Successful completion of the Introduction to Coaching Course qualifies you as an assistant coach under supervision.
– Please note that assistant coaches are not yet qualified to lead squads independently.
– As you gain coaching experience, you can progress to Level 1 certification.
– Upon course completion, successful Garda/Access NI vetting and completion of a recognised Safeguarding course, you will receive a Certificate of Achievement jointly issued by Rowing Ireland and Sport Ireland Coaching.
