*What is a Character Coach?

A Character Coach is a trusted, volunteer presence on the team that assists the coaching staff with the character development of student athletes.  They can do as much or as little as the coach and school will allow.  Character Coaches will be trained to know that authentic presence leads to more opportunities and involvement with players, coaches, parents and school. 

Character Coaches are an allowable resource via Section 1201 (b) 14.

The Coach of the participating team can either select an individual who would then be vetted and trained by FCA staff or the FCA staff member in their area can find someone from their MLA certified and trained volunteer pool for the Coach to consider. The Coach of the team will have control and final say over the selection of the Character Coach.

*What is Ministry Leadership Application (MLA) Certification?

The Ministry Leader Application is a series of questions designed to align all those who work within a Fellowship of Christian Athletes Ministry and/or Initiative in a unified and focused direction.  The questions are reviewed and followed up by staff before a volunteer is “certified.”  A “background check” is involved in this process.

*Does the MLA Certification preclude other School District certifications?

No.  The MLA lets the participating school district know that the individual has gone through our process for involvement.  It is expected and assumed that the Character Coach will go through any and all necessary background checks, certifications and trainings deemed necessary by the participating school district.  The MLA certified Character Coach carries with them FCA funded liability coverage.

*What does Character Coach training involve?

Character Coaches will be trained in: • UIL Regulations governing competition in the State of Texas. • Title IX Regulations and Compliance • Expectations and Accountability Procedures • Crisis Intervention and Procedures • Rules of Confidentiality and the relationship with threat to self and others • Outcry Procedures and Referral • Abuse • Substance • Family • Imminent Danger • Best Practices • Authentic presence and trusted resource for staff, team    and school • Following the Head Coach’s lead (when to speak, when not to speak, what to speak) • Exposure to all Character Coaching Resources.