Level 3 Information

The Level 3 program is the highest level of the USATF Coaching Education Program. The 32-hour course further expands on the scientific base included in the previous levels and provides coaches with comprehensive knowledge to master an event discipline. The Level 3 Program includes instruction from some of the world’s best sport scientists and elite coaches. Participants will also work with an advisor to implement a capstone project during the indoor and outdoor season. Earning Level 3 is approximately a year long process from course start to capstone evaluation results.

Event disciplines offered include (may vary on an annual basis):

• Sprints/Hurdles/Relays
• Endurance
• Jumps
• Throws
• Combined Events
• Youth Specialization

Course Structure

Live Sessions / Asynchronous Coursework

Prior to the in-person instruction, all event-disciplines will be provided access to Canvas and attend two required four-hour live sessions (Zoom). During the off-meeting weeks, coaches will complete asynchronous coursework on special topics.

In Person

During the in-person portion, coaches will primarily be with their event discipline group receiving event-specific instruction and opportunities for practicum from elite coaches and sport scientists. Coaches will also meet with their designated course advisor and receive feedback and final approval on their capstone project.

Assignments

Coaches must pass a 35-question refresher quiz covering Level 1 and Level 2 to unlock course contents. Other assessments will include required readings, discussion posts, live session quizzes, and milestones (consent form, athlete profile, problem statement, support team, and plan) related to the capstone project. The capstone project is due in the following year by August 31.

Application Requirements

• Minimum five years of track and field, cross country, club or personal run coaching experience and actively coaching throughout enrollment
• Must be the primary coach of an athlete approaching qualification to a state high school association championship, collegiate championship (NCAA, NJCAA, or NAIA),  USATF national championship (Youth, U20, Senior, or Masters), World Athletics member federation national championship, if an international coach, or an Abbott World Marathon Major. The athlete selected for non-U20 disciplines must be at least 16 years of age by the start of the Level 3 Program and will be required to complete a consent form.
• ​Hold USATF Level 2 certificate in event discipline seeking Level 3
• Current USATF Coaches Registry Member

Benefits

• Recognition as a USATF Level 3 Coach
• Lecture materials from some of the world’s best sport scientists, elite coaches, and advisors
• Skills and knowledge to coach athletes at the national, international, and podium level
• Interaction, networking, and mentoring opportunities with the nation’s top coaches

Level 3 certificate holders interested in joining the USATF Registered Coaches Program must maintain USATF 3-Step SafeSport Compliance requirements to remain active on the SafeSport Compliant and Coaches Registry lists.

Recertification

No recertification requirements are currently in effect for USATF Level 3 certificate holders (subject to change).