Welcome to the 2023-2024 Season!
Professional, fun and knowledgeable coaches are one of USASA's greatest assets. In collaboration with the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Sport Education Department we deliver high-quality education programs and resources for coaches of all levels in the United States. At USASA events all coaches are required to be certified at 100 or above.
The certification is a two part process involving online self paced learning modules, followed by an in person on snow assessment. During the on snow assessment new coaches are evaluated by trained coach developers on the comprehension of the online materials and the ability to demonstrate further proficiencies in technique, tactics and movement analysis. Coach developers evaluate and share deeper knowledge in a group setting and the assessment is a great place to share within a group setting.
USASA assists in the scheduling of on snow assessments and assigning coach developers for L100 and L200 courses. US Ski & Snowboard is responsible for managing the online curriculum and the registration for on snow coach assessments. In order to participate as a coach in a USASA event you must hold a valid USASA Membership, a valid US Ski & Snowboard Membership, and a current coaching certification.
The USASA and U.S. Ski & Snowboard coach certification program is a tiered system with each level building on the previous.
- Level 100 program is designed for new coaches working primarily with younger, developing athletes
- Level 200 focuses on coaches working with athletes starting to compete at the national level
- Level 300 is for the Head Coach working with athletes competing at the highest levels of national events or beginning to compete internationally
All coaches working toward Level 100 must be currently working as an active coach within a US Ski & Snowboard club or with an insured and licensed independent coaching program. In addition, coaches are required to show proof they will be working over 60 hours per season as a coach for the program. This prerequisite will be verified at your assessment. If you cannot provide proof of employment you will not be able to participate in the on snow assessment and no refunds will be given.
During the on-snow assessment, you will review the fundamental technical and tactical aspects of coaching and you will also be evaluated on your ability to teach, demonstrate, and analyze several fundamental skiing/riding skills. Upon successful completion of the on-snow assessment, you will complete a course survey and obtain the appropriate Level Coach Certificate. On Snow Assessments will be limited to a 10:1 ratio per discipline.
Coaches must be current and active to attend a USASA event in season. Coaches who are in attendance at a USASA or US Ski& Snowboard event who are not active will be subject to the suspension of their membership.