top of page
SVG LOGO_1.png

Coach Development Pathway

Athlete Development & Competition Framework

St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation (STF) – Coach Development Pathway

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish a clear, structured pathway for Taekwondo coaches in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, ensuring that every instructor meets the highest standards of technical expertise, ethical conduct, and athlete welfare.

This pathway ensures that coaches are not only skilled in the art and sport of Taekwondo but also trained educators, role models, and leaders who can safely and effectively guide athletes from grassroots to elite levels.

2. Guiding Principles

  1. Quality & Safety First – Athlete safety and quality instruction are the highest priorities.

  2. Integrity & Accountability – Coaches must uphold the highest ethical standards and pass background checks.

  3. Continuous Learning – Coaching excellence requires ongoing professional development.

  4. Alignment with International Best Practices – The STF will follow standards set by World Taekwondo and internationally recognized coach education programs.

3. Baseline Requirements for All Coaches

Before being permitted to instruct under the STF, every coach — regardless of level — must:

  • Be a registered STF member in good standing.

  • Hold a valid STF Coach License.

  • Pass a Criminal Background Check (renewed every 3 years).

  • Complete a recognized International Coach Education Program (e.g., World Taekwondo Coach Certification, Pan American Taekwondo Union courses, or equivalent).

  • Hold valid First Aid & CPR certification.

  • Complete Child Protection & Safeguarding Training approved by the STF.

4. Coaching Levels & Pathway

The STF Coach Development Pathway consists of four progressive stages:

4.1 Assistant Coach (Entry-Level)

Purpose: Support lead coaches while gaining instructional experience. Requirements:

  • Minimum rank of 1st Dan Black Belt.

  • Completion of STF Assistant Coach Induction Course.

  • First Aid & Safeguarding certifications. Responsibilities:

  • Assist with classes under supervision.

  • Support warm-ups, drills, and basic skill instruction.

4.2 Club Coach

Purpose: Lead training sessions independently at the club level. Requirements:

  • Minimum rank of 2nd Dan Black Belt.

  • Completion of World Taekwondo Level 1 Coach Certification or equivalent.

  • Pass STF Coaching Examination. Responsibilities:

  • Plan and deliver structured training sessions.

  • Prepare athletes for grading and local competitions.

  • Maintain accurate attendance and training records.

4.3 National Coach

Purpose: Coach at national training camps and lead athletes in international competition. Requirements:

  • Minimum rank of 3rd Dan Black Belt.

  • Completion of World Taekwondo Level 2 or higher Coach Certification.

  • Proven record of developing successful competitive athletes.

  • Completion of STF High-Performance Coaching Module. Responsibilities:

  • Implement national training plans.

  • Support athlete development pathways.

  • Mentor Club Coaches.

4.4 High-Performance Coach

Purpose: Specialize in elite athlete preparation and international success. Requirements:

  • Minimum rank of 4th Dan Black Belt.

  • Completion of World Taekwondo International Coach Certification (highest available level).

  • Demonstrated success at continental or world-level competition.

  • Advanced training in sports science, performance analysis, and periodization. Responsibilities:

  • Lead the national high-performance program.

  • Develop elite training camps.

  • Liaise with international experts to ensure best practices.

5. Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

  • Coaches must attend at least one STF or WT-recognized seminar annually.

  • Maintain current First Aid, CPR, and safeguarding certifications.

  • Participate in ongoing referee or technical update sessions to stay aligned with rule changes.

6. Ethics & Disciplinary Measures

  • Coaches must uphold the STF Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct at all times.

  • Any breach — including misconduct, negligence, or unethical behavior — may result in suspension or permanent removal of coaching privileges.

7. Review

This pathway will be reviewed every two years by the STF Technical Director and Coaching Committee to ensure it remains relevant and aligned with global standards.

bottom of page