Coaches Playbook
Brush High School's Coaches Playbook course gives students the opportunity to earn an official coaching license—a nationally recognized credential that qualifies students to coach youth sports, lead athletic programs, and work in sports-related fields. Whether a student is passionate about athletics, interested in sports management, or exploring careers in education and youth development, this course provides professional certification that opens doors to immediate employment and long-term career opportunities.
What is Coaches Playbook?
Coaches Playbook is a comprehensive coaching education program that prepares students to become certified coaches through RefReps—a trusted platform used by schools, youth sports organizations, and athletic programs nationwide. Students complete coursework covering coaching fundamentals, sports safety, athlete development, and leadership, culminating in an official coaching license upon successful completion.
The leadership, communication, and organizational skills developed in Coaches Playbook transfer to careers far beyond athletics.
What Students Will Learn
Career Applications
Youth Sports & Recreation
- Youth league coach (soccer, basketball, baseball, etc.)
- Summer camp counselor and sports instructor
- Recreation center program coordinator
- After-school sports program leader
Education & School Activities
- Assistant coach positions at middle and high schools
- Physical education teacher aide
- Intramural program coordinator
- Student athletic trainer assistant
Sports Management & Business
- Sports facility operations
- Tournament and event coordination
- Athletic program administration
- Fitness and wellness instruction
Community & Nonprofit
- Youth development programs
- Community center athletics
- Parks and recreation positions
- Mentorship and leadership programs
You don't need to be a star athlete!
Coaches Playbook is for students who love sports and want to help others develop, not just elite athletes. Effective coaching requires communication, empathy, organization, and leadership more than personal athletic achievement.
What to Expect
Course Structure
- Complete certification within one semester
- Progress through online RefReps modules at own speed within the semester timeframe
- Coursework hours vary based on your pace and the sport(s) selected for certification
- Interactive videos, quizzes, case studies, and practical scenarios
- Demonstrate mastery through module quizzes and final certification exam
- Hands-on coaching experience with middle school athletes and open gym participants
Certification Requirements
- Successfully complete all RefReps modules for chosen sport(s)
- Pass certification exam with minimum required score
- Demonstrate understanding of coaching ethics, safety, and fundamentals
- Complete practical coaching experiences at middle school and open gym sessions
Post-Certification
- Receive official coaching license for certified sport(s) (validity period varies by sport)
- License recognized by youth sports organizations, schools, and recreation programs
- Access to RefReps resources, continuing education, and coaching community
- Eligible to apply for coaching positions immediately upon certification
Is This the Right Program?
Students should consider Coaches Playbook if they:
- Love sports and want to share that passion with young athletes
- Are interested in coaching, teaching, or youth development
- Want a credential that offers immediate employment opportunities
- Enjoy leadership roles and working with teams
- Are looking for flexible work that fits around a school schedule
- Want to make a positive impact in their community
- Are exploring careers in education, sports management, or athletics
Choosing a Pathway
Ready to jump in? Students can visit their counselor to:
- Learn about course availability and enrollment
- Understand how Coaches Playbook fits into their schedule
- Explore which sport(s) they want to pursue certification in
- Discuss how certification connects to their career interests
- Get information about the RefReps platform and licensing process
Use the BLS Career Exploration tool to research specific careers within each pathway.