Level 2 Information

The USATF Level 2 Program is guaranteed to challenge and advance your knowledge of the sport. Certified by the National Council for Accreditation of Coaching Education (NCACE), the course provides an advanced, in depth education in one event group and the knowledge to write a comprehensive training plan. The intense four-day course is preceded by online sports science instruction and exams covering biomechanics, physiology, skill acquisition and training theory for all first-time participants. Once a coach has applied and is accepted into the course, they are permitted access to the online sports science classroom to complete pre-requisite coursework prior to arrival. At the course, coaches are separated into event specific groups which focus on the technical aspects using video analysis, group projects, classroom instruction, and hands-on training. Coaches are tested on their knowledge from the event specific lectures and are presented a Level 2 certificate at graduation. Event disciplines offered include:

• Sprints/Hurdles/Relays

• Endurance
• Jumps
• Throws
• Combined Events
• Youth Specialization

Course Objectives

Upon completion of the USATF Level 2 School, participants will be able to:

1. Develop a vision, plans, and practices for LTAD based on an athlete-centered coaching philosophy for individuals within communities.
2. Engage in and support ethical practices, behaviors, and codes of conduct in track and field.
3. Build positive, professional relationships through effective communications with stakeholders from a variety of cultures and backgrounds.
4. Develop emotionally and physically safe environments and practices that reduce the risk of injuries in track and field.
5. Create a positive, inclusive climate and implement best practices for participation of all groups and individuals.
6. Plan, teach, assess, and adapt event-specific training based on sound teaching, learning, and sport science principles.
7. Strive for continuous improvement through self-reflection and professional development.

Level 2 Requirements

To apply for the Level 2 School a coach must:

• Be a USATF member.
• Hold a current USATF Level 1 certificate.
• Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application submission.
• Have a minimum of 3 years of track and field, cross country, club or personal run coaching experience.

Course Classifications

Youth Specialization

The Youth Specialization discipline is designed to address the needs of those seeking advanced training in coaching the developing athlete. The program supports youth, middle and high school coaches as they face challenges ranging from introducing the sport to novices to the unique concerns associated with preparing young elite athletes striving for spots on the podium at state, national, and international championships.

First Time Participant

Anyone attending the USATF Level 2 School for the first time is required to register as a first-time participant. This group reviews online sports science content and are tested on this content prior to arrival. Be prepared to contribute a minimum of 20 hours to satisfactorily complete the sports science assignments (video lectures, discussion posts, and quizzes) in advance of the course.

Alumni

Alumni have previously taken the Level 2 Course and are returning to review an additional event area. Alumni are not required to review the Sports Science content.

Benefits

• Recognition as a USATF Level 2 Coach and exempt from Level 1 Recertification
• Curriculum book covering sports science and individual events
• Skills and knowledge to coach athletes at the high school through collegiate level
• Interaction and mentoring opportunities with the nation’s top coaches

Level 2 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.