No matter what level you are coaching, you will need a certification. BC Hockey, through Hockey Canada, follow the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) that outlines what is required. In addition to these requirements are a number of professional development opportunities for those coaches who wish to add supplemental knowledge to their arsenal.

All team staff will also require to complete the Respect in Sport (RIS), Concussion Awareness Training Tool (CATT) and Criminal Record Checks prior to stepping onto the ice.

NOTE: CHANGE TO INITIATION LEVEL CERTIFICATION FOR NEW COACHES

As of the 2017-18 season, those coaching initiation or novice hockey (H1-H4) will need to understand the following:

• If you have already completed the Coach 2 - Coach Level certification, you do not require any other certifications. However, Coach 1 - Intro to Coaching is a recommended supplemental program as it focuses on coaching cross-ice hockey which is not included in the Coach 2 course.
• If you are a new coach, and you are coaching initiation, Coach 1 - Intro to Coaching is the new required certification.

The links below will outline the following:

Hockey Canada - the general requirements and explanations
BC Hockey - clinic registration portal
Coaching Association of Canada - supplemental information and other opportunities