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Coach membership
Requirements Checklist
Please follow these steps
NEW & RENEWING COACHES
1
Membership Application
Complete and mail a non-athlete membership application to the address print on the application form. Memberships are processed by each LSC (Local Swimming Committees). Annual fees vary by LSC. Application forms can be found on each LSC website.
2
Foundations of Coaching
First year coaches must complete Foundations of Coaching 101 Level Course ($15). The course takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. Results are automatically reported into the USA Swimming database upon successful completion.Prior to 2nd year of registration, coaches must complete Foundations of Coaching 201 ($25). This course takes approximately 5 hours to complete and results are automatically reported into the USA Swimming database upon successful completion.
Rules & Regulations for Coaches (no fee). This course needs be taken only one time and prior to the second year of coaching. It takes about 1 hour to complete and will automatically be reported to the USA Swimming database upon successful completion.
3
Concussion Protocol Training
Coaches should take the concussion training to meet their state requirements. In a state where no such law exists, coaches can take the training through the Centers for Disease Control or the National Federation of State High School Associations. Certificates of completion must be sent to the LSC registrar for documentation.
4
Safety Training for Swim Coaches
The STSC requirement consists of two components: (A) an online course and test, and (B) an in-water skills session.The online component must be passed before taking the in-water skills component. Go directly to http://www.redcross.org/take-a-class and complete the instructions on ARC web page.A: All coaches must complete the online course and test. When the course is completed, save/print the Online Content Only certificate and forward it to your LSC registrar. The certificate will have a QR code that can be traced on ARC website. The course should take 2-3 hours to complete. Coaches can exit the course at any time and log back in to resume where they left off but once they start the final exam, they need to complete it in one session.
B: There are three options for completing the in-water skills session. Find the option that works best for you and then click on the button for additional information about that option:
- STSC Option 1: COACHES WHO USE THE GENERIC IN-WATER SKILLS CHECKLIST Print the generic STSC In-Water Skills Checklist (available on your LSC website) and review the skills with an instructor certified by one of the organizations on the checklist;
- Contact a lifeguard instructor certified by any of the organizations on the in-water skills checklist (sample checklist is below; a copy should also be posted on your LSC website). Set a time to review the skills in a pool with the instructor.
- Take a copy of the Online Content Only certificate and the in-water skills checklist to the pool for the skills review with the lifeguard instructor. Review the skills with the instructor, sign the checklist, have the instructor sign it, and then send both the checklist and online certificate to your LSC registrar. The earlier of the two expiration dates will determine the STSC credential expiration date.
- Repeat this procedure every two years.
- STSC Option 2: COACHES WHO HAVE AN ACCEPTABLE LIFEGUARD CERTIFICATION Maintain a valid lifeguard certification from an approved agency;
- Obtain or renew an acceptable lifeguarding certificate (see the list below for acceptable certifications).
- Send an acceptable lifeguarding certificate and the STSC Online Content Only certificate to the LSC registrar. The earlier of the two expiration dates will determine the STSC credential expiration date.
- Repeat this procedure every two years.
- STSC Option 3: COACHES WHO HAVE ACCESS TO AN AMERICAN RED CROSS INSTRUCTOR Take the full in-water skills session from an American Red Cross instructor.
- Contact an ARC water safety, STSC or lifeguard instructor to schedule the ARC STSC in-water skills session in a pool with the instructor. (This session will be an abbreviated review session for those with a current STSC certification or a full session for those without a current STSC certification.) Coaches can also request a ‘blended learning’ course to include Adult and Pediatric CPR/AED, thus fulfilling another USA Swimming requirement at the same time.
- Take a copy of the Online Content Only certificate to the pool to prove you have passed the online course. Complete the in-water skills session with the ARC instructor, who will issue a STSC In-Water Skills Session certificate. Send both certificates to your LSC registrar. The earlier of the two expiration dates will determine the STSC credential expiration date.
- Repeat this procedure every two years.
5
CPR/AED Certification
Obtain USA Swimming-approved adult & pediatric CPR/AED certification. Certification must be kept current at all times.Coaches who do not have access to an acceptable CPR/AED course or have taken a course that is not on this list can call their local American Red Cross chapter to challenge one of their Adult and Pediatric CPR/AED courses. The challenge involves passing the skills assessment with an ARC instructor without having to take the entire course. The ARC will charge a fee for each challenge. Call your local ARC chapter to set up a challenge.
6
Criminal Background Check
All non-athlete members must pass a criminal background check every 24 months. Please visit www.usaswimming.org/backgroundcheck for additional information and to initiate the background check.USA Swimming requires that individuals serving in the following roles become non‐athlete members of USA Swimming:
- Coaches
- Officials
- Athletes
- Meet Directors
- Team Chaperones
- USA Swimming Board of Directors and National Committee Members
- Individuals with any ownership interest in a member club
- Individuals with password access to the USA Swimming SWIMS member database
- Members of the USA Swimming House of Delegates
- HQ Staff
- “Employees and volunteers of USA Swimming, Zones, LSCs and member clubs who interact directly and frequently with athletes as a regular part of their duties” (Article 305.4)
7
Athlete Protection Training
Athlete Protection Training: All non-athlete members must complete the online Athlete Protection Training course annually. The core course takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and is offered at no charge. The renewal course, offered in alternate years, is about 45 minutes long. When the course has been completed, the membership database is updated and the LSC is notified automatically.New non-athlete members must register through their LSC first. New members cannot initiate this course until their membership application has been processed by their LSC. New members will receive an email as soon as their membership has been processed by the LSC.
8
USADA Coach's Advantage Tutorial
Current and previous members can access the course at any time. This course is offered at no charge. New members cannot begin the course until their membership applications have been processed by the LSCs. This course is renewed annually.All coaches must complete the online USADA Coach’s Advantage Tutorial annually. The course takes approximately 20 minutes to complete and is offered at no charge. Results are automatically reported into the USA Swimming database upon successful completion.
DECK PASS SIGN-UP
- Verify membership status
- Once all requirements have been met, an e-card will be made available.
- Check expiration dates of all requirements
- Present your e-card at meets.
Contact Us
Have questions or need any help? Send an email to the following:
WHAT's NEXT
The LSC will be notified automatically when a coach has passed the background check, online athlete protection training, and the Foundations of Coaching exams.
FAQS
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Look below for many of our commonly asked questions to find your answer. If you still need assistance, please reach out to us for more information.
Does only the coach of record need to be 18 years of age or older?
As of Jan 1, 2011, all coaches must be 18 years of age.
How do I know if I am a USA Swimming Coach member?
After your local registration person has processed your application you will receive a registration card (usually in the mail) that has the year that you are a coach member in the background with your name and address in the foreground. At the bottom of the card are the words “Is a valid coach member through (date).” The date is the first date that: (1) one of the safety certifications expires, (2) the background check expires or (3) December 31st of the current year (whichever one of the three comes first). If it does not say “coach member” at the bottom of the card and says “non-athlete member” then you need to contact your registration person immediately because you are not registered as a coach member! You can also check your certification dates and membership status on your Deck Pass account.
Why is it a problem if my certification expires for a short period of time?
One of the greatest exposures a coach has from a liability standpoint is "improper instruction." For example, a swimmer dives too deep and is severely injured. The coach and club are sued. If the coach does not have current certifications, he/she no longer has coverage for this type of claim. Further, the club's insurance could be in jeopardy if it knew the coach's certification(s) had lapsed.
My CPR certification has expired and I just have not had time to get it renewed yet. Do I still have USA Swimming insurance while I am on deck coaching?
No. From an insurance standpoint, you are no longer insured as a coach as of the date that any of your certifications expire. You are immediately considered a non-athlete member who is no longer a coach.
Is there a substitute for the Safety Training for Swim Coaches course?
STSC is a two-part course – there is an online course and test, as well as a water skills session. You must pass the online course and test. However, recognized lifeguarding certifications can be used for the water skills portion.
I need to renew my Safety Training for Swim Coaches certification. How do I find a class?
Safety Training for Swim Coaches (STSC) is only offered by the American Red Cross. Go to Safety Training Requirements page for specific information on how to fulfill this requirement.
Safety Training Requirements
I need to renew my Safety Training for Swim Coaches (STSC) certification. My local ARC chapter has informed me that a course called Sport Safety Training has replaced STSC. If I take Sport Safety Training instead of STSC, have I met the requirements?
No! Sport Safety Training has not replaced Safety Training for Swim Coaches and does not meet the USA Swimming coach membership requirement.
Does USA Swimming require lifeguards during practice?
USA Swimming does not require lifeguards to be on duty for swim practices or meets. If the facility has a requirement for lifeguards to be on duty in order for its insurance to be in effect, then this is a facility regulation. Many states also have laws that require lifeguards to be on deck in certain situations.
I’m not a new coach but I’d like to take the courses anyway – am I allowed to do that?
Yes, any USA Swimming coach member may take the courses.
Are the USA Swimming Foundations of Coaching tests the same as ASCA Level 1?
No. USA Swimming requires the completion of the Rules and Regulations test. The ASCA Foundations course is a DVD based course while the USA Swimming Foundations of Coaching are two online course. While the contest is very similar they are different courses. If you take the USA Swimming Foundations of Coaching courses ASCA will give you credit for taking the course. However, USA Swimming will not give you credit for completing ASCA's Foundations course because it is a little bit different than the USA Swimming course.
Do I have to be a member of ASCA (the American Swimming Coaches Association) too?
No. ASCA membership is entirely optional. By passing the Foundations of Coaching tests you are eligible to become ASCA Level 1 certified (by request only – ASCA does not do this automatically). If you would like more information about becoming a member of ASCA, please call 1-800- 356-2722.
Will I have to take a test each year now?
No, there are no additional educational requirements after the Foundations 101-201-Rules and Regulations requirements.
How do I get the USA Swimming Rules and Regulations book?
As a coach member, USA Swimming will send you a copy of the Rules and Regulations free of charge. Generally, you will receive your copy within three months of registration. The easiest way is to view the USA Swimming Rules and Regulations online. Go to the “About” tab on the USA Swimming website and then click on Rules and Regulations. You can also order a rulebook at the “USA Swimming Store” on the website.
Which version of the USA Swimming Rules & Regulations do I need for the test?
The Rules and Regulations are updated each May. After the update, the newest rule book is the reference for the USA Swimming Rules and Regulations test.
Who receives the money from the purchase of the Foundations of Coaching courses?
Like most of the programs run by USA Swimming, the new coach education program is designed to break-even or run at a slight loss. When you purchase the courses from USA Swimming, the charges cover the basic costs and investment into up to date coaching resources. Absolutely no royalties are paid to any of persons in the courses. All gave of their time and expertise voluntarily.
I coached many years ago. Am I still a new coach?
You may not have to take the Foundations of Coaching courses and tests. If you were a USA Swimming coach member prior to 1998 you will need to give your LSC Membership Chair a copy of your old USA Swimming Coach card (from 1998 or before) and ask to be grandfathered. If you do not have an old coach card, you may contact USA Swimming (call 719-866-4578.) You will need to provide the exact year you were a USA Swimming coach member, the LSC you were in at the time, the name you were registered under at the time and your current LSC. We will attempt to locate you in our archives. If we locate you in the archives as a coach prior to 1999, we will contact your current LSC Membership Chair and let him/her know to “grandfather” you in. If we cannot locate you in the archives you will be required to take the new coach courses/tests. Also remember, things change and a refresher course might not be a bad idea even if you were a coach many years ago.
Should I register before or after I take various tests and background screening?
USA Swimming suggests that you register as a Coach first. (see previous question.) Then, as you complete each requirement, it will automatically link to your membership record in the database. When you complete all of the coach requirements, your LSC will mail your Coach membership card to you.
How do I register? How do I find out which LSC I am in? Where do I send my USA Swimming non-athlete registration form?
You will need to register through your LSC Registration Chair. Go to www.usaswimming.org/lscmap to determine your LSC, then scroll down below the map to the link to your LSC’s website. On most LSC websites, you can print the non-athlete application form and mail it with your payment to the address printed on the form. The registration form requires that you choose one: Official, Coach, Other. Choose Coach. If you are unsure about your LSC, contact the Member Services Department by calling 719-866-4578.
What does LSC stand for?
Local Swimming Committee.
What happens if I don’t take or fail a test?
If you fail a test, you will need to retake it. Please note that your next test will be a different computer generated test. You may take the tests as many times as necessary in order to pass each one. You must pass the tests before you can be a USA Swimming Coach member. If you are on deck coaching and are not a coach member, you are not covered by insurance and are putting your club at risk.
How do I know if I passed or failed?
You will receive your score as soon as you finish and submit.
How long are the tests?
The Foundations 101 test is 25 questions; Foundations 201 is 40 questions. These tests are accessible after you complete the courses. You can go back and look at the material while you answer the questions. The Rules and Regulations test is 30 questions and is based on the USA Swimming Rule Book. 80%
Is there a cost for the courses and test?
Yes. The cost is $15 for 101 and $25 for 201. The Rules and Regulations test is free. The USA Swimming site links to a secure eCommerce site where you sign in and pay.
Can I take the test on paper and mail it in for grading?
No.
Can I just take a test without taking the online courses?
No.
Can I take the courses and tests online?
The only way to take the courses and tests is online. Go to the USA Swimming website www.usaswimming.org. To get started, go to the "Resources” tab on the top of any page. From there click Education and then on the “Online Learning/Foundations of Coaching” on the menu bar on the left.
Do I have to take the Foundations of Coaching test? Do the new coach requirements apply to me?
The new coach requirements apply to any coach who registered with USA Swimming for the FIRST time after September 1, 1998. A new coach must pass the Foundations of Coaching 101 course/test prior to registering as a USA Swimming coach member. A coach must pass the Foundations of Coaching 201 course/test and the Rules and Regulations test prior to registering for the second year of membership.
What age can a junior coach be?
Junior coaches can ONLY be 16 or 17 years of age.
Where do I get a membership application?
Determine your Local Swimming Committee and then visit their website to print the non-athlete application form.
LSC Websites
I can't find the membership application online.
Please call your LSC directly to obtain an application.
Is there a fee for the membership application?
Application fees vary by LSC. The form you download will include the payment needed to submit with the application.
Where does my membership application go?
Mail the completed form, payment, and CPR/AED & STCS certifications to the LSC. Their address will be located on the application you download from their site.
How can I check my membership application status?
If you are a new member, you will receive an email confirmation when your application is received and completed by your LSC. For renewing members, your Deck Pass account will automatically be updated. You can view/print your membership ID card through your Deck Pass account.
Deck Pass
How do I replace missing/lost ARC certificates?
You can find your ARC Certificates by following the link to the Red Cross websites. It will take you directly to their Digital Certifications page.
Visit Red Cross
Having issues with the ARC site?
Problems encountered on the ARC website should be directed to their Training Support Center: 1-800-RED-CROSS or support@redcrosstraining.org.
Email Red Cross
Where can I find the Safety Training Checklist?
Follow this link to download the Safety Training for Swim Coaches In-Water Skills Checklist
Safety Training for Swim Coaches In-Water Skills Checklist
How do I find approved courses for CPR/AED certification?
Please download the Coach Requirements document for a full list of approved courses. Certifications from courses not on this list will not be accepted.
Coach Requirement Document
Can I take an online course for my CPR/AED certification?
Online-only courses are NOT acceptable.
Where do I submit my CPR/AED certification?
Please submit a copy of your current CPR/AED certification to your LSC.
What is the cost of a background check?
The new member background check costs $38. The fee for all existing members the first time they complete a check with IntellicorpRecords is $38. The fee to renew the background check (every other year) is $18.
New York County Record Search Fees
Due to the unusually high access fees in certain counties of New York State, some members may be subject to an additional fee for county criminal record searches conducted the state of New York.
A search for an address in a New York state county is subject to an additional $95 fee per name for county criminal record searches. This is the actual fee charged for the search by New York. Beginning January 1, 2020, USA Swimming no longer subsidizes this fee. The member will be responsible for the full fee which will be applied at the time the background check is ordered.
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