interns for ACs

I'm a big believer in having ACs. I see HS coaches, usually teachers, out there by themselves and I just don't see how learning gets accomplished on a productive level. Not to mention you're missing a 1B coach during games. The HS I'm now coaching at informed me that they would be providing me with an AC. I was kind of hesitant at first, not sure how useful this AC was going to be. Turns out she's an intern from the local college, experienced in softball and looking to learn and teach.
So, if you HCs out there are looking for an AC, this may be a good source for you. Interns don't get paid, so your AD will love it.

I coach Middle school ball (seventh and eighth grades) and my school district has always allowed me (or required me) to have one adult female (unpaid) as an assistant coach. Most years it was a mom that had come up through the rec league ranks. I have been very fortunate the last five years with a mom that was very knowledgeable, and had two outstanding players come through. As soon as the school season was over, about half the team changed into their travel ball uniforms and she coached them there up through September.
The problem was her job, and she was limited on some of our road games.
The solution was easy, and I am ashamed I had never thought of it before. My 19 yo daughter (former HS and TB player) was at a nearby college. Since she is working toward being a Math & Physics teacher, I thought why not ask about using her as a second AC. To my surprise, it was approved (although I had to go way up the ladder and lobby for it), although I had to pay for her background check.
It did not take long for the HS softball, baseball, Volleyball and Track teams to follow suit. Unfortunately not all of them had similar success.
So I would say this:
1. Make sure it is someone with no character issues, and is not their to "relive their glory days"
2. They understand their duties, assignments and role
3. They be someone who wants to learn and assume more responsibilities as they grow, (not a warm body)
4. Be aware of the politics that could get you saddled with someone that is not a good fit (you have to be able to choose/dismiss)

Good Luck!

cvsoftball said:

I'm a big believer in having ACs. I see HS coaches, usually teachers, out there by themselves and I just don't see how learning gets accomplished on a productive level. Not to mention you're missing a 1B coach during games. The HS I'm now coaching at informed me that they would be providing me with an AC. I was kind of hesitant at first, not sure how useful this AC was going to be. Turns out she's an intern from the local college, experienced in softball and looking to learn and teach.
So, if you HCs out there are looking for an AC, this may be a good source for you. Interns don't get paid, so your AD will love it.

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Interns should get paid, but thats a different discussion for a different place.

chinamigarden said:

Interns should get paid, but thats a different discussion for a different place.

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Head coaches should get paid, too, but not all of us do.

I agree HS coaches should get paid but not getting paid for rec or TB has its advantages.