Virtual coach education

We have developed a new Hybrid Learning System for our Introduction to Coaching and our Level One Coaching Courses. We now deliver many of the course modules through live and online sessions with only the most essential practical segments delivered face to face in the gym and in regional rowing centers.

Introduction to Coaching Course

• The course consists of four live online sessions (max of 15 participants) with our coach developers and
  will include:
  • some prior reading,
  • group participation,
  • breakout discussions, and
  • online quizzes.
  • In addition, there will be a practical session organized in a club near the participants to put the learning outcomes into practice. In total, some 7 hours of a learning experience split between 4 X 1-hour sessions online and 1 X 3-hour practical.
• Topics covered include:
  • The role of the coach.
  • Coaching skills and how to get your message across clearly and simply.
  • Rowing technique – what should you be looking for?
  • The physical requirements for rowing.
  • Planning a coaching session.
  • Code of behavior for coaches and the welfare of participants.
  • Safety considerations in your own club.
• Those who complete the Introductory course are qualified as assistant coaches to coach under supervision. They are not qualified to take charge of a squad on their own. Coaches can move on to Level 1 certification once they build up some coaching experience. At the end of the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion from Rowing Ireland.
• Please note you will need access to a computer/tablet and Internet access to complete your online learning. Once your place is confirmed we will request payment of €80 to book your place on the course.

Level One Coaching Course

Course candidates will be 18 years or over. They will have attended the introductory course (or will be actively participating in rowing or coaching and recommended by a coach, coach developer or club captain). Candidates will be expected to attend a separate module on the Rules of Rowing and the Code of Ethics/Conduct in sport before being awarded a level one certificate.

• The course consists of seven live online sessions (max of 15 participants) with our coach developers and
  will include:
  • some prior reading,
  • group participation,
  • breakout discussions, and
  • online quizzes.
  • In addition, there will be practical sessions organized in a club near the participants to put the learning outcomes into practice.
  • In total, some 27 hours of a learning experience split between 7 X 1.25-hour sessions online and 3 X 6-hour practical modules, made up of:
    • Two water sessions, to include rigging, at a designated regional center.
    • One strength and conditioning workshop, also at a designated regional center.
  • Each session will be followed by a homework or learning exercise, which you will need to complete before moving on to the next session.
  • You must complete a Safeguarding course prior to commencing Level One.
  • Your learning will be assessed.
  • You will receive a certificate of completion.
• Topics covered include:
  • Coach & Athlete Characteristics & Setting the Right Environment.
  • Effective Communication, Goal Setting & Training Programs.
  • Coaching Skills, Best Practice & Training Diaries.
  • Technical Overview, Common Mistakes &Drills..
  • Nutrition & Hydration.
  • Strength & Conditioning Theory.
  • Safety considerations in your own club.
• This is the second step on the Rowing Ireland ‘Coaching Pathway’ and will certify you to become a Level 1 Coach in your club. Successful completion of this course will typically enable you to coach Junior 12 to Junior 18 athletes and adults from novice to intermediate grades. This syllabus has been developed using teaching best practices in conjunction with Sport Ireland Coaching. At the end of the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion from Rowing Ireland.
• Please note you will need access to a computer/tablet and Internet access to complete your online learning. Once your place is confirmed we will request payment of €320 to book your place on the course.

If you have any questions about these courses please email Gerry at coacheducation@rowingireland.ie