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. Coach athletes in event-specific areas applying advanced sport science concepts and training principles.
2. Analyze and evaluate event-specific performances and recommend ways to improve progress towards athletes' goals.
3. Design periodized training programs based on the evaluation of individual performances and needs in light of event specific demands.
4. Utilize effective instructional methods and feedback to improve the athlete’s performance.
5. Develop a coaching philosophy that reflects ethical standards and codes of conduct to promote Safesport practices and athlete well-being.
6. Plan and implement mental and physical strategies that promote healthy lifestyles, safety, and injury prevention in practice and competition.
7. Solve organizational, legal, and financial issues encountered in the administration of track and field.

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

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.