Million Coaches Challenge Aims to Elevate Coaching Standards in Fencing, Weightlifting, and Triathlon

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — USA Fencing, in collaboration with USA Weightlifting and USA Triathlon, is thrilled to announce a partnership with the Susan Crown Foundation for the Million Coaches Challenge (MCC). The Susan Crown Foundation-led initiative aims to increase the number of qualified, well-trained youth coaches across the country, particularly in underserved communities, with a goal of training a million coaches by 2025.

In partnership with the MCC, three expert-developed coach education modules for youth coaches were created as part of the online coach education programs of the participating national governing bodies (NGBs). These modules include Effectively Coaching Generation Z, Creating A Culture of Belonging, and Elevating Your Coaching IQ. USA Fencing coaches can access these programs as part of the Foundations course launching in the 2023-24 membership season. All USA Weightlifting members have access to the free courses inside the USAW Learning Academy through BARS.

In the spirit of improving the coaching landscape across all sports, these modules won’t just be for the three participating NGBs. Other NGBs will be welcome to use them within their own coach education programs as free education for members. Those who are interested should email education@usaweightlifting.org for details.  

Supported by the Susan Crown Exchange as part of the Million Coaches Challenge, we are pleased to introduce a Youth Coach Fellowship program. Spanning 24 weeks, this program will support coaches from across sports. These coaches will engage in a community of practice, collaborating on how to help their athletes thrive. 

The Fellowship program has been designed to enable youth coaches to:

• Confidently coach young people, helping them develop essential skills and attributes both within and outside of their sport.

• Learn from other coaches working with youth, fostering an exchange of ideas and best practices.

• Feel supported in their coaching journey, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

This three-year grant from the Susan Crown Foundation marks a significant investment in the future of coaching for USA Fencing, USA Weightlifting and USA Triathlon. By focusing on positive youth development, the Million Coaches Challenge aims to elevate the standard of coaching across these sports and create a lasting, positive impact on the lives of young athletes.