PREPNET / SPEAK OUT

What types of training or experience should walk-on coaches be required to have?

NICO BOLLINI

Servite, Golf

Obviously, coaches should know a certain amount about the sport they are coaching, but they should also know what it takes to keep the kids interested. He or she has to know how to get good games and know how to train kids to get them to the next level of play.

SCOTT HINMAN

Irvine, Girls’ Swimming

and Water Polo Coach

The first thing they need to have is first aid and medical training. They also must have specific experience in the sport they are coaching and have recommendations. And finally, and the most important of all, is the experience they have in dealing with kids in general.

TRAVIS HANOUR

Laguna Beach, Boys’ Basketball

I think they should have coaching experience, maybe as an assistant or through a recreation youth league. They should also be good with kids and do it because they want to coach, not just for the glory of it. And I think they should have played [the sport they coach] before.

EDDIE RAPP

Santa Margarita, Volleyball Coach

I don’t know to what extent you would want to have official qualifications for walk-on coaches. The more restrictions there are, you might not get as good a coach. I think that’s what the interviewing process is about, to make sure the coaches agree with departmental and school philosophies. It’s not just about wins.

SANJAY SHAH

Fountain Valley, Basketball

I personally dislike walk-on coaches. The kids need to have their coach on the campus. But the qualification a walk-on should have is at least some college playing experience, and maybe experience in coaching.

NEXT QUESTION

The San Diego section of the CIF recently approved roller hockey as a sport. What new sports should Southern Section consider adding?