Expert: Derek Stewart - 5/5/2007

Question
I am a college freshman interesting in becoming a coach.  Would you recommend that I major in Excercise Science, Physical Education, Athletic Training or something else?

Answer
Hi Patrick,
Any one of those majors will help you in terms of coaching, but what you major in won't be the determining factor in whether or not you will be able to get a coaching job once you graduate. The most important thing will be your knowledge of the game and your experience. I would advise that you take the time over the next three years to get as much hands on experience that you can. Try to find some basketball camps that you can work at during the summer. Volunteer to coach youth teams. You might even be able to be a volunteer assistant at a local middle or high school. These are all examples of hands on experience that you can get while you're still in college that will go a long way towards helping you reach your goal once you graduate. In addition, you'll start making coaching contacts that you'll need in the future. Hope this helps!