Learn, Inspire and Lead
Coach certification is designed for aspiring ultimate coaches who want to learn more about a variety of different aspects from some of the sport’s top experts. Topics include values, inclusion, philosophy, ethics, leadership, communication, practice planning, long-term athlete development and Spirit of the Game. USA Ultimate offers certification in three different categories: middle school (age 12-14), high school (age 14-18) and college/club (age 18+). The overall agenda and subject matter are consistent across the three groups but the discussion and content is tailored to be age-specific. Currently, certification is required to coach at high school state championship tournaments and the Youth Club Championships.
Core Values
USA Ultimate’s Coaching Development Program features and promotes six core values designed to provide an inclusive, safe, and fun environment for athletes and coaches alike.
Well-Trained Coaches
Skilled coaches who continue to learn their craft and enhance their knowledge provide a better experience for players.
Focus on Fun & Player Centered
Fun is the primary reason people participate in sports. A player-centered focus teaches autonomy.
Inclusive & Age Appropriate
Establish and maintain a welcoming environment for all. Teach the right skills – physical, cognitive, emotional and moral – at the right time.
Multi-Sport Participation
Encouraging participation in many different sports and physical activities, as well as incorporating rest and recovery, make motivated and well-rounded players.
Physical Literacy
Understanding movement and responsible body control are the building blocks of athleticism.
Small-Sided & Free Play
More playing. More creativity. More learning. Allow athletes to discover and learn through inventive playing. Free play develops autonomy.
3 Simple Steps to Becoming a USA Ultimate Certified Coach
1
Purchase a USA Ultimate Coach Membership.
Coach members must pass a background check, complete SafeSport and concussion training and pass a brief test after watching a series of coach education videos.
2
Attend a USA Ultimate Coach Certification Clinic.
Choose a type of clinic (middle school, high school or college/club) most aligned with the age group you intend to coach.
3
Pass a Test.
After passing the test, your certification is valid until December 31 of the third year. (For example, if certified on June 1, 2021, the certification would expire on Dec. 31, 2023.)
Coach Certification Clinics
Learn to Lead
USA Ultimate currently offers certification clinics for middle school and high school coaches with a college/club curriculum coming in the spring of 2021. These three-hour educational clinics focus primarily on the intrapersonal and interpersonal aspects of coaching more than technical and tactical X’s and O’s. Clinics are organized locally by your local disc organizer or a local clinic facilitator.
2020 Clinic Calendar
February
Date
Level
Location
Register
2/11
Middle School
Golden, CO
2/16
High School
Norcross, GA
2/16
High School
Boulder, CO
2/22
High School
Plymouth Meeting, PA
2/22
High School
Springfield, OR
2/22
High School
Washington, DC
2/22
High School
Madison, WI
2/29
High School
Sudbury, VT
March
Date
Level
Location
Register
3/1
High School
Grand Rapids, MI
3/7
High School
Chicago, IL
3/7
High School
Danvers, MA
3/7
High School
Wauwatosa, WI
3/7
High School
Middlebury, VT