The USBA Coaches Certification Program is a four (4) Level program aimed at developing a stage progression of educational requirements and skills necessary for training competent, knowledgeable, professional biathlon coaches, and to ensure a common language and a standardized methodology that will enhance future growth and development of biathlon.

Level 1
Introductory level that covers the basics of biathlon training. Content includes rules, basic safety, technical skills of shooting and skiing, basic principles of coaching, training methods and activities for local, entry level athletes. Requirements include USBA membership, a 12 (twelve) hours course, USBA Safety Certification, a practical coaching evaluation, completion of the ASEP Successful Coaching Program and approval of the USBA instructor and Coaches Ed Committee chairman prior to certification.

Level 2
Intermediate level covering the skills needed for the activities at the club level type programs. Content includes intermediate ski and shooting techniques, design and implementation of a training program, physiology and psychology and intermediate methodologies. Requirements include USBA membership, Level I prerequisite, a weekend long course, maintenance of a professional notebook, mentor guided hands-on experience, Level 1 Officials Certification, completion of two (2) ASEP Program Correspondence courses (Teaching Sport Skills and Sport Injuries) and approval of the USBA instructor and Coaches Ed Committee chairman prior to certification.

Level 3
Advanced level covering the skills needed for activities at the regional and national levels. Content includes principles and practices of sport physiology and psychology, advanced techniques, multi-year planning and race preparation meeting the needs of an intermediate and advanced program, athlete and coach development. Requirements include USBA membership, Level 2 prerequisite, attendance at two (2) selected seminars, mentor guided hands-on experience at the Regional/National levels, completion of two (2) ASEP Program Correspondence courses (Sport Psychology and Sport Physiology) or equivalent educational courses and approval by the USBA VP Sport and Coaches¹ Education Committee prior to certification.

Level 4
The most advanced level designed to prepare coaches for activities at the national and international level. Content includes a series of elite level tasks covering the skills needed to work with the most advanced level athletes, instructor responsibilities at coaches¹ clinics, and assistant coach responsibilities at international competitions. Requirements include USBA membership, Level 3 prerequisite, hands-on experience at the Regional and National levels, completion of two (2) ASEP Program Correspondence courses (Time Management and Sport Administration), practical sessions and assignments with the National Team and Coaches and approval by the USBA VP Sport and Coaches¹ Education Committee prior to certification.

Officials Certification Program
<<back to Coaches & Officials