Coaching Policy
The South Stoney Basketball Association (SSBA) is able to deliver on its Mission because of its large number of volunteers. At SSBA, Coaches make up the majority of its volunteers, so it's important we provide a summary of requirements, expectations, and maintain a list of FAQ’s. While not always perfect, we strive to provide all our primary stakeholders with the most positive experience and keep them coming back over the years.
Requirements
● All coaches should indicate their interest in volunteering upon registering their child and indicate their preferred coaching role: Head or Assistant (or either). Upon completion of Player Evaluations, coaches must register through Teamlinkt and follow the standards below.
● Maintain a clear ePIC standing
● Read and adhere to the CMBA Participation Agreement.
● Register and attend one of the SSBA specific Coaching Orientation Sessions.
● Complete the CMBA Mandatory Coaches Training
● Complete the Safe Sport Training provided by Canada Basketball
● Maintain a high-degree of professionalism throughout the season
Expectations
● Age Group Coordinator will communicate coaching assignments to players/parents
● Coaching Development Coordinators will perform confidential surveys with parents and players about their experience(s) at the end of the season. Results will be shared to help coaches improve their approach and processes.
● Head Coach to set clear expectations for immediate stakeholders
● Coaches to establish and maintain:
○ Team Manager (ie: parent)
○ Minor Official (ie: parent) for each game: score-keeper or clock-keeper
○ Gym Monitor for each game
○ Healthy and constructive dialogue amongst immediate stakeholders (fellow coaches, players, team managers, and parents.)
○ Team DNA or team culture (what does the team want to be known for, etc)
FAQ
Q: Are Coaching Clinics offered prior to the start of the season?
A: Yes, clinic dates are posted on the CMBA website
Q: For any crucial conversations with players, is there a specific protocol in place?
A: Yes, CMBA has a ‘Rule of Two” practice.
Q: After Player Rosters are set, how is the coaching staff selected?
A: In all cases we strive to identify a Head Coach and Assistant Coach(s).
Although not mandatory, Head Coaches should have youth athletic coaching experience, preferably basketball coaching experience. The Age Group Coordinator reviews the list of coaches as submitted through the registration process, consults with SSBA stakeholders, discusses with the SSBA Coaching Development Coordinator(s), and applies their own judgement in making coaching staff selections.
Q: What if there is more than one coach that wants to be the Head Coach?
A: If the Age Group Coordinator feels there are two equally qualified options for Head Coach, they may choose to: - - - -
Absolve themselves from the process if there’s deemed to be a conflict of interest (i.e.- club basketball ties, friendships off the court, church ties, etc.) and elevate the decision to their VP.
Review previous years experiences with the candidates (use surveys obtained)
After reviewing previous years experiences, have 1:1 discussions with each candidate. Consider a random selection of player parents if further discussion is needed
Ensure coach decision is in line with SSBA mission and values
Q: Who needs ePIC clearance?
A: All Head Coaches and Assistant Coaches require ePIC clearance from the Calgary Police Services (CPS).
Q: When should I apply for ePIC clearance?
A: As soon as you’ve been selected to coach with SSBA.
Q: Can I recover the cost of my ePIC application?
A: Yes, once you have clearance, send your receipt and letter of clearance to your age group coordinator, they will kick off the refund process internally.
Q: I received ePIC clearance from CPS in the past, do clearance letters expire?
A: Yes, for SSBA, clearance is valid for 2 years from the issue date.
Q: I have ePIC clearance from another volunteer association in Calgary, will that work?
A: Yes, as long as the clearance letter is still valid and will stay valid throughout the season.