Students who love sports and coaching now have a new opportunity to get in on the action. The West Virginia University College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences has launched a new minor in athletic coaching education.

Successful coaches know that training athletes, from young to elite, is both a science and an art. The new minor prepares students to understand various aspects of athletic coaching and to work with athletes at all levels of performance.

Students will gain practical skills as coaches, with additional understanding of training, injury control, and the psychological perspectives in sport. Job areas associated with athletic coaching include high school, college and community based sport teams.

“The new minor started in August with the 2011 fall semester. Students can declare the minor now or any time in the future.” said Dr. Valerie Wayda, chair, department of Coaching and Teaching Studies at CPASS.

“The program consists of on campus classes with some of the classes also delivered online during the summer.”

The ACE minor requires 20 hours – 12 hours covering injury control and management, and principles in coaching, with additional focus on the exceptional athlete. Students can choose from techniques of coaching in a variety of sports, including swimming, lacrosse and women’s gymnastics. This minor includes both on-campus and online courses, and most courses are offered during the summer terms.

For more information, visit http://cpass.wvu.edu/.

-WVU-

kc/ 9/26/11

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CONTACT: Kimberly Cameon, CPASS
304-293-0827, Kimberly.Cameon@mail.wvu.edu