Offering organized sports, especially for youth, is a significant part of what community park and recreation departments do to help kids stay healthy, bring a community closer and make a positive impact on the quality of life for so many.  To make the programs a success, many park and recreation departments rely on volunteers and parents to help with coaching, organizing and inspiring the children involved.

These programs are often a child’s first interaction with a team sport so it is important to know you have qualified and prepared coaches.  So how can you do this?

The NRPA Young Professional Network (YPN) is back with their latest vlog (video blog) with information on the importance of training and certification for youth sports coaches and even the parents in the stands. 

YPN member Ron Strickler, Jr, CPRP, Recreation Supervisor at Ocean City Recreation and Parks in Maryland interviews the National Alliance for Youth Sports’ Chief Operating Officer John Engh about their coaching certification and parent training programs. 

Watch to find out why these programs may be helpful for your agency! 

Why do you think it is important to provide training and certification for coaches of your sports leagues? What are some ways you encourage sportsmanship among parents?   

Leave a comment below or tweet us @NRPA_News and @YoungProf_NRPA . You can also connect with Young Professionals on NRPA Connect.