Coach Certification Program

No. In fact, we encourage you to spread it out! Certifications are designed to take a year. The modules are self-paced, and you are welcome to stop and start as your schedule allows.

How do I know what course to take?

All coaches must take the Quality Coaching Framework. New coaches to USA Swimming are required to take the Core Certification. All other coaches are encouraged to take Core or one of the ADM Certifications.

Click here to see the flow chart.

How do I log in to the courses?

Single sign-on to your USA Swimming account.

What age can a junior coach be?

Junior coaches can ONLY be 16 or 17 years of age.

Can a junior coach member be designated as a head coach for a USA Swimming club member?

No, a Jr. Coach cannot be designated as a head coach of USA Swimming club member.

Is a junior coach allowed to be on deck without another non-athlete coach member on deck?

No, there must be present another non-athlete coach member who is in good standing.

If a current athlete member becomes a junior coach member, do they have to pay a second membership fee?

No. If the athlete is registered as a Premium member (not a Flex or Outreach member) for the current registration period, the second USA Swimming membership fee is waived if both memberships are under the same LSC. NOTE: LSCs are not obligated to waive their LSC membership fees that are in addition to USA Swimming membership fees.

Once a junior coach turns 18 years of age, how long do they have to complete a background check?

The junior coach has 30 days from the time they turn 18 to complete a background check. They will receive an email notification 30 days prior and another one 15 days prior to turning 18, letting them know that they must complete the background check within 30 days after turning 18.

Do junior coaches need to complete all the non-athlete coaching requirements?

Yes. Junior coaches are required to complete everything but a background check (CPR, Online and In-Water Safety Training, Welcome to USA Swimming and the Quality Coaching Framework courses).