Coach Selection Criteria
Purpose
The Bedford Minor Basketball Association (BMBA) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and developmentally focused environment for all athletes. The purpose of this Coach Selection Process is to ensure transparency, consistency, and fairness in the selection of coaches who will uphold the values and vision of the Bedford Eagles program.
Eligibility Requirements
All selected coaches must complete or be in the process of completing the following prior to assuming a coaching role:
- Criminal Record Check (CRC)
- Child Abuse Registry Check (CAR)
- Vulnerable Sector Verification (VSV)
- Basketball Nova Scotia (BNS) Required Minimum Coach Education Course
Selection Criteria Framework
The coach selection framework is evaluated using a weighted scoring system out of 100%. In each case, the weighting of applicant responses will be done on a comparative scale. That is, the submissions are compared against other applicants for that role. For example, for a U10 team, the completion of the Learn to Train program could be considered up to a full 40%, unless there is another applicant with additional training, in which case those would be weighted against each other. The criteria and respective weightings are as follows:
- Coaching Certifications & Development - 40%
- Participation in and Completion of Basketball Canada’s Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) programs:
Learn to Train, Train to Train, Train to Compete - NCCP Coaching Certifications (as tracked by ca)
- Other relevant coaching education, clinics, or certifications. Certifications will be weighted based on the degree of evolution and time-investment required.
- Coaching Experience, Ability & Communication - 25%
- History of coaching teams with emphasis on equivalent levels of competitiveness and intensity
- Demonstrated success and experience in teaching, motivating, and developing players
- Evidence of creating a positive, inclusive, and growth-oriented team environment
- References from past coaching roles, where applicable
- Unique Value Contributions - 10%
- Non-parent/non-familial applicants are prioritized to encourage impartiality and long-term program continuity
- Emphasis on recruiting and developing female coaches, particularly for girls’ teams
- Club Experience & Commitment - 10%
- History with the Bedford Eagles, including seasons coached, participation in club evaluations, tryouts, and camps
- Demonstrated alignment with BMBA’s values and support for broader organizational objectives
- Technical Director Evaluation - 10%
Coaching candidates will be evaluated by the Technical Director based on:
- Preparedness and leadership capabilities
- Ability to foster a positive player experience and love for the game
- Ability to work with TD to further their coaching development. Including attending coaches’ meetings, clinics, and available for feedback after practice and/or game visits.
Evaluation will be done on a scale of 1 to 5 for each area where 1 is Not at All and 5 is Fully, Without Hesitation.
- Parent Feedback - 5%
- Aggregated feedback from prior team evaluations, where available
- Note: Due to inconsistent data collection in past seasons, this component is supplementary and interpreted with caution
Application & Interview Process
Step 1: Expression of Interest
Candidates must submit an initial expression of interest form to the club.
Step 2: Submission of Coaching Package
Applicants will be advised of nature of competition in the process and will be requested to provide:
- A current coaching resume
- A cover letter outlining:
- Why they wish to coach a specific team
- Their coaching philosophy and style
- How they align with the goals and culture of BMBA
Step 3: Interview
Shortlisted candidates will participate in an interview with the Coach Selection Committee, which may include members of the Executive, Technical Director, and other club volunteers as selected by club president.
Negative Indicators in Selection
Certain behaviours or incidents may disqualify or limit a candidate’s eligibility:
| Category | Description | Impact on Candidacy |
| Potentially Disqualifying | Verified complaints involving abuse, harassment, or inappropriate conduct toward minors | Disqualification |
| Potentially Limiting (50%) | Documented instances of unexcused absences or lack of communication for team obligations | Score capped at 50% |
| Potentially Limiting (50%) | Incidents of verbal misconduct, demeaning behavior, or inappropriate discipline | Score capped at 50% |
Note: Game results, player time concerns, and coaching decisions around roles/positioning are not valid grounds for disqualification unless part of a broader behavioural concern.
Our Commitment
The Bedford Eagles are committed to building a coaching community that reflects our values: integrity, development, inclusion, and excellence. We aim to support our coaches through training, mentorship, and recognition—fostering a positive environment for both players and coaches to thrive.
