Irish Amateur Wrestling Est. 1947

Becoming a Coach

Requirements to Become an I.A.W.A. Coach

Individuals wishing to undertake coaching roles within I.A.W.A.-affiliated clubs must satisfy the applicable membership, qualification and safeguarding requirements.

These include:

  1. I.A.W.A. Membership: Coaches must hold current I.A.W.A. membership.
  2. Coaching Education: Coaches must complete the appropriate I.A.W.A.-recognised coaching education and certification for their role.
  3. Garda Vetting — download the form and view instructions: Coaches undertaking relevant work with children or vulnerable persons must complete the required Garda Vetting process before commencing that work.
  4. Safeguarding Training: Coaches working with children and young people must complete the relevant safeguarding training.
  5. Code of Conduct: Read the Members and Coaches Code of Conduct. Coaches must comply with the I.A.W.A.’s coaching standards, safeguarding policies, codes of conduct and disciplinary procedures.
  6. Ongoing Development: Coaches are encouraged to maintain and update their knowledge through further education and practical experience.

Individuals beginning their coaching journey may assist qualified coaches under appropriate supervision while completing the necessary training and role-specific requirements.

The safety, welfare and enjoyment of all participants must remain the priority of every I.A.W.A. coach.

A coach talks a wrestler through his bout at the Santa Slam

Inspire, develop and make a difference through wrestling.

Coaching is one of the most rewarding ways to become involved in wrestling. Whether you are a former athlete, a parent, a teacher or someone passionate about sport, becoming a wrestling coach gives you the opportunity to inspire others, develop new skills and make a positive contribution to your community.

The Irish Amateur Wrestling Association (I.A.W.A.) is committed to developing knowledgeable, confident and qualified coaches who can deliver safe, enjoyable and progressive wrestling experiences for participants of all ages and abilities.

You don’t have to be a champion wrestler to become a great coach. What matters most is your enthusiasm, commitment to learning and willingness to help others succeed.

Why Become a Wrestling Coach?

People become involved in coaching for many different reasons.

  • As a parent: You may want to become more involved in your child’s sporting activities and contribute to their development.
  • As a former or current athlete: You may wish to share your wrestling knowledge, experience and passion with the next generation.
  • As a teacher: You may want to introduce wrestling as part of school or extracurricular sporting activities.
  • As a volunteer: You may enjoy working with people and making a positive difference in your local community.
  • As a sporting enthusiast: You may simply love wrestling and want to develop your skills in a new direction.

Whatever your background, coaching provides an opportunity to develop leadership skills, build confidence, form friendships and contribute to the growth of wrestling in Ireland.

What Does an I.A.W.A. Wrestling Coach Do?

An I.A.W.A. coach plays an important role in developing athletes, promoting positive sporting values and ensuring that wrestling is delivered in a safe and supportive environment.

A good wrestling coach strives to:

  • Create enjoyable, inclusive and engaging training sessions.
  • Introduce participants to the fundamental skills and techniques of wrestling.
  • Develop coordination, balance, strength, agility and overall physical literacy.
  • Plan structured training sessions appropriate to participants’ age, ability and experience.
  • Encourage confidence, teamwork, discipline and respect.
  • Provide constructive feedback to help athletes improve.
  • Recognise individual abilities and adapt coaching methods to meet different needs.
  • Promote safe participation and responsible sporting behaviour.
  • Support athletes who wish to progress towards competitive wrestling.
  • Encourage lifelong participation in sport and physical activity.

Great coaches do more than teach wrestling techniques. They help develop confident, resilient and respectful individuals both on and off the mat.

What Skills Do You Need?

You do not need extensive wrestling experience or advanced technical knowledge to begin your coaching journey.

Many successful coaches develop their skills through education, practical experience and working alongside more experienced coaches.

Useful qualities include:

  • Enthusiasm and a genuine interest in helping others.
  • Good communication and listening skills.
  • Patience, encouragement and a positive attitude.
  • Willingness to learn and accept feedback.
  • Ability to work as part of a team.
  • Leadership and organisational skills.
  • Creativity and problem-solving ability.
  • Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and fair play.

The I.A.W.A. coaching education programme is designed to help aspiring coaches develop these qualities alongside their technical wrestling knowledge.

The I.A.W.A. Coaching Pathway

The I.A.W.A. provides a structured coaching education pathway to support individuals from their first introduction to coaching through to more advanced coaching and athlete development roles.

Our coaching programmes aim to align with the principles of the Coaching Development Programme for Ireland (CDPI) and the standards promoted by Sport Ireland Coaching.

Stage 1 – Introductory Wrestling Coaching Course

The Introductory Coaching Course is designed for individuals who are new to wrestling coaching or who wish to assist qualified coaches within their clubs.

The course introduces participants to:

  • The role and responsibilities of a wrestling coach.
  • Basic wrestling techniques and movement skills.
  • Planning and delivering simple coaching activities.
  • Creating safe, enjoyable and inclusive training environments.
  • Communication and positive coaching practices.
  • Understanding the needs of participants at different stages of development.

This course provides a foundation for further coaching education and development.

Stage 2 – Level 1 Wrestling Coaching Course

The I.A.W.A. Level 1 Coaching Course builds on the knowledge and skills developed during introductory training.

It is designed to prepare coaches to plan, deliver and evaluate structured wrestling sessions appropriate to their qualification and level of responsibility.

Areas of learning include:

  • Wrestling techniques and their practical application.
  • Coaching methods and skill development.
  • Session planning and organisation.
  • Safe training practices and risk awareness.
  • Participant development and progression.
  • Communication, feedback and athlete motivation.
  • Practical coaching delivery and assessment.

Participants are required to complete the relevant learning activities and assessments to achieve certification.

Continuing Coach Development

Coaching education does not end with obtaining a qualification.

The I.A.W.A. encourages coaches to continue developing their knowledge and skills through:

  • Technical wrestling seminars and workshops.
  • Practical coaching experience and mentoring.
  • Continuing professional development opportunities.
  • Safeguarding and athlete welfare education.
  • Anti-doping education and awareness.
  • Coach development programmes delivered through Sport Ireland and other recognised sporting organisations.

As Irish wrestling continues to grow, the I.A.W.A. is committed to developing further coaching pathways and opportunities for coaches working at grassroots, club and performance levels.

How Do I Get Started?

Starting your coaching journey is easier than you might think.

If you are interested in becoming a wrestling coach, we recommend the following steps:

  1. Contact your local wrestling club. Speak with an experienced coach and find out about opportunities to become involved.
  2. Become an I.A.W.A. member. Ensure you are registered with the Association.
  3. Enquire about coaching courses. Contact the I.A.W.A. for information on upcoming Introductory and Level 1 coaching programmes.
  4. Complete the relevant safeguarding and vetting requirements. These will depend on your coaching role and the participants you work with.
  5. Gain practical experience. Develop your confidence and skills by assisting experienced coaches under appropriate supervision.
  6. Continue learning. Attend workshops, technical seminars and development opportunities to improve your coaching knowledge.

You do not need to know everything before you begin. Coaching is a continuous learning process, and the I.A.W.A. is here to support you along the way.

I.A.W.A. Coach Developers

The quality of coaching education depends on the knowledge, experience and commitment of those delivering it.

The I.A.W.A.’s coaching education programmes are supported by experienced Coaching Tutors and Coach Developers who have undertaken relevant training and development in coach education.

Our Coach Developers play an important role in preparing new coaches and supporting the ongoing development of existing coaches throughout Ireland.

Their responsibilities include:

  • Delivering I.A.W.A. coaching education programmes.
  • Supporting coaches in developing technical and practical coaching skills.
  • Facilitating learning through discussion, demonstration and practical activities.
  • Assessing coaching competencies where appropriately qualified.
  • Providing feedback, mentoring and guidance.
  • Promoting safe, inclusive and participant-centred coaching practices.
  • Supporting the development and improvement of I.A.W.A. coaching standards.

The I.A.W.A. works towards aligning its coaching education programmes with the Coaching Development Programme for Ireland (CDPI) and the wider coach education framework supported by Sport Ireland Coaching.

Our objective is to provide a clear and progressive coaching pathway that supports coaches throughout their development, from introductory participation through to advanced coaching roles.

Start Your Coaching Journey Today

Every wrestler deserves the opportunity to learn from a knowledgeable, supportive and appropriately qualified coach.

By becoming an I.A.W.A. wrestling coach, you can help introduce new participants to the sport, develop future champions and make a lasting contribution to wrestling in Ireland.

Whether your ambition is to coach beginners, support your local club or work towards coaching at national and international level, your journey starts here.

Interested in becoming a wrestling coach?

Contact the Irish Amateur Wrestling Association for information on upcoming Introductory and Level 1 Coaching Courses.

Develop your skills. Inspire others. Help grow Irish Wrestling.

Please note: Coaching course eligibility, certification, assessment and safeguarding requirements are subject to current I.A.W.A. policies and the requirements applicable to each coaching role.