Coaches' Perceptions of Canada's National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP): Awareness and Value

Abstract

Coaching education and certification programs are needed to ensure standards for qualified and equipped coaches at all levels of our sport systems. This study examined coaches' (n = 285) perceptions of Canada's National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP); specifically, their awareness and perceived value of the program. Results indicated that a large majority was aware of the NCCP, and that the most frequent means for finding out about a course was through their sport organization. More than half of the participants perceived the value of the NCCP program as “good”, and this perceived value increased after taking a course. Further, most participants described themselves as likely to take another NCCP course. Participants cited the primary benefit of taking a course to be that the credential ensures better prepared athletes through higher quality of coaching. Implications and recommendations for the NCCP are discussed and comparisons with coaching programs in several other countries are provided.