Varsity Brands announced that Varsity University, which offers educational programming to schools and athletic programs nationwide, has partnered with the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) to launch the Varsity University/NFHS Coaches Education Program.
This new program will focus on sport safety certification for high school coaches, addressing a vital and growing need among high schools across the country to ensure safe, controlled and beneficial access to high school sports activities. The NFHS, which governs the rules of competition for most high school sports and activities in the United States serves the 19,300 high schools and over 11 million students involved in athletic and activity programs.
At the outset, this partnership will focus on five key areas, beginning with the Sport Safety Certification in 2019, and continuing with Coaching Development, Activity Specific Courses, Fitness and Wellness, Character Development and Sportsmanship. The Sport Safety Certification will feature seven courses that range from coaching basics to the safety and well-being of young athletes.
“The NFHS and Varsity Brands bring a long, successful history of working together on managing risk in the after school and extracurricular markets, and this program is the next milestone in the partnership,” said Adam Blumenfeld, CEO of Varsity Brands. “We share a common belief, for example, that athlete safety comes first and is the key to successful programs and well-rounded and healthy young adults. Our partnership with the NFHS will help ensure that high school coaches benefit from access to cutting-edge resources for ongoing education and Professional Development credit.”
Karissa Niehoff, executive director of the NFHS, added, “Our partnership with Varsity University will enhance the reach and influence of the NFHS and, with it, a positive impact on the lives of the millions of students participating in our programs. We look forward to working with Varsity Brands to provide accessible, affordable educational options for our members.”
Since 2014, Varsity University has offered educational programming to schools, athletic programs and students nationwide. Through a combination of specialized online courses and in-person conferences and seminars, Varsity University has provided training on topics such as Coaching Effectiveness, Skills for Student Success, Social Media & Personal Branding and Cultivating Leaders to over 13,000 educators and coaches.
The NFHS supports its 51-member state high school athletic/activity associations by publishing playing rules in 16 sports, as well as cheer and dance. The NFHS provides education for a variety of stakeholders with an extensive online program that includes certification for coaches, training for officials, and ways to minimize risk to participants.
Coaches who complete the Varsity University/NFHS Coaches Education Program will receive seven hours of Professional Development from Sterling College. The courses, which start at $40, will be offered through Varsity University.
Varsity Brands includes BSN Sports, Varsity Spirit; and Herff Jones.
