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In addition to Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 completion, all requirements below must be current in order to be a certified coach. Note: when any requirement expires, you are no longer a certified coach. All requirements should be uploaded to your Coach Profile in the Member Portal except SafeSport and Mentor Hours (more information below).
The CPR and First Aid certifications can be completed through any recognized organization:
The course does not need to be OSHA certified but a valid expiration date is required. Most certifications are valid for 2 years.
We recommend that you complete the course your state requires or recommends. This is required even if your state does not have a licensing requirement. Expired licenses will not be accepted.
NASBLA will give you a list of all courses approved within your state. Free and affordable options can be found here.
Coaches must hold a current background check that is compliant with the USOPC’s guidelines. These background checks are mandated by USOPC.
NCSI is the exclusive vendor for background checks as it is the approved provider for the USOPC contracted to meet all USOPC requirements. As of August 1, 2024, USRowing will only accept background checks conducted by NCSI.
The cost of the initial domestic background check for candidates pursuing Level 2 and 3 certification is included in the cost of the course. The initial background check is completed through NCSI and is valid for 2 years.
**Candidates completing their Level 2 or 3 coaching certification will receive an email upon completion of the live Zoom sessions.** This email from NCSI, will provide instructions for completing the background check. Candidates have 14 days in which to complete the check, after this point the link will expire and candidates will then be responsible for their own background check.
All coaches are responsible for subsequent background checks through NCSI. USRowing offers a discounted background check through NCSI($30) which can be accessed using the link below.
NCSI Background Check Request (for Level 1 or for updates only, please do not use this if you are currently enrolled in Level 2 or 3).
The U.S. Center for SafeSport (Center) is an organization created by Congress to protect athletes. The Center is an independent organization headquartered in Denver, Colorado, and is separate from the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC). The Center is committed to building a sport community where participants can work and learn together in an atmosphere free of emotional, physical, and sexual misconduct. The Center provides a safe, professional and confidential place for individuals to report sexual abuse and other inappropriate behavior within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic movements. SafeSport certification needs to be renewed every year to be a USRowing certified coach in good standing.
To complete the training, reload your profile and the course will automatically update on your profile.
If you’re having issues linking SafeSport with your membership, please contact members@usrowing.org.
In 2025 USRowing is replacing mentor hours with Continuing Education.
To maintain your Level 1, 2, or 3 certified status, you must complete CECs (Continuing Education Credits) each year. Look for CECs value listed with all courses, clinics, and events.
Level 1: 3+ CEC
Level 2: 6+ CEC
Level 3: 6+ CEC
Options for Continuing Education Credits:
Note: Mentor Hours are now optional. Individuals who complete Level 1, 2, or 3 in 2024 now have the options:
The mentor hours are time spent outside of your usual coaching duties gaining new skills/knowledge. These are continuing education hours. Please record each activity separately and note: the activity, length of time, and what you gained from the activity.
Potential Options for Mentor Hours:
USRowing offers free webinars and courses that count towards these hours.
Mentor hours required by Certification level:
Mentor hours can be submitted to learningdev@usrowing.org
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