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About Coaching Certification

Coaching Certification Clinic Schedule
Officials' Clinics

Here are answers to the most common questions about California USA Wrestling’s requirement that coaches must have NCEP Copper certification to coach on the floor at a state tournament. You can buy the training manuals listed on our book page at an online bookstore.

Copper clinics are offered on the Friday night preceding each State tournament. Copper certification is a requirement for coaches that wish to apply as a State Coach for national trips. Applications for State Coach slots are available from Duane Morgan (831-636-1569). Any coach applying must be a USAW member, have a minimum of a Copper Coaching Level Certificate and a letter of recommendation from their Association Chairman. The Coaches Selection Committee will review and recommend the final selection.

Q: What is copper certification?

Copper certification is a sport-specific program provided by USA Wrestling through NCEP. It involves participating in a four-hour classroom discussion, watching a video, reading a workbook, and completing a quiz.

Q: I’m already certified as a high school coach. Do I need this?

Yes. Copper certification is sport-specific and is required by California USA Wrestling to coach on the floor at a state USAW tournament.

Q: Do I need copper certification to be a high school coach?

Each school district sets its own requirements, so you need to talk to your local district to find out what they require of coaches. Most districts require walk-on coaches to complete the ACEP coaching certification, which is eight hours long. The Copper clinic is provided by NCEP, not ACEP, and does not meet this requirement.

Q: Does the copper clinic teach basic wrestling skills?

Not in detail. There is no mat work, but the seven basic skills of wrestling are explained in the companion workbook. The primary purpose of the clinic is to teach basic sports psychology and a philosophy of coaching endorsed by USA Wrestling. The clinic is conducted in a classroom setting and you don’t need to bring wrestling gear.

Q: I got my copper, bronze, or silver certification in previous years. Is that still good?

Prior to 1996, the certifying agency for these programs was ACEP, not NCEP, the current standard for USA Wrestling. All new certifications must meet NCEP standards, but if you can provide proof that you completed previous ACEP certification, you will be grandfathered.

Q: How is anybody going to know if I’m certified when I show up at a tournament and ask for a floor pass?

If you have your Copper Certificate or Copper Certified NCEP coaches card, you should bring it to the event to avoid long lines and possible errors on the list. Copper clinics are also offered every Friday night preceeding each state championship tournament.

Q: I didn’t get my card yet. Whom do I contact?

Send email to Paul Bristow, pbristow@muhsd.k12.ca.us.

About NCEP

The National Coaches Education Program (NCEP) offered by USA Wrestling is an integral component of USA Wrestling’s mission to offer the most powerful and comprehensive wrestling program in the world. NCEP offers four levels of certification:

Copper Level Certification

The NCEP Copper level is designed for the beginning coach or wrestler’s parent. It helps USAW volunteers provide a fun and safe atmosphere for young wrestlers. It consists of a four-hour clinic and test which costs $10-$25. A certificate of Copper certification and a Copper certified NCEP coaches card are issued upon successful completion.

Bronze Level Certification

The Bronze level is a comprehensive education program for coaches who are committed to expanding their knowledge in the art and science of the coaching of wrestling. It consists of a six-hour clinic which costs $60 and includes USA Wrestling’s Coaches Guide To Excellence. Technical certification is achieved via clinic participation or by video testing. A certificate of Bronze certification and a Bronze level certified NCEP coaches card are issued upon successful completion.

Silver Level Certification

The NCEP Silver level provides coaches with extensive information about the practical applications of coaching theory and provides them with an opportunity to apply their knowledge through research in the field of wrestling. It consists of attendance at USA Wrestling’s annual Silver Level Coaches College, the completion of eight task criteria, and the hosting of a Bronze level clinic. The cost is $225 for the Coaches College which is held at various sites annually throughout the country. A certificate of Silver certification, a Silver level certified NCEP coaches card, a 5x7 plaque, and a USAW Silver certified special edition watch are issued upon successful completion.

Gold Level Certification

The Gold level is the highest level of certification within the NCEP. It represents years of previous education and a long term commitment to excellence in the sport of wrestling. It consists of the completion of twelve task criteria, presentation as an instructor at the Silver Level Coaches College, and participation as a team leader or assistant coach on a USAW approved international tour. A certificate of Gold certification, a Gold level certified NCEP coaches card, a 5x7 plaque, and a 14-carat Gold certified coaches ring are issued upon successful completion.

For more information about the national NCEP program call 719-598-8181 or write:

For more information about the California implementation of the NCEP program send email to the State office or contact Duane Morgan at 831-636-1569.