Changing Coaches
Navigating a Coach Change: A Clear and Respectful Transition Process for Athletes and Coaches
The decision for an athlete to change coaches is one of the most significant choices they can make in their athletic career. It affects not just the athlete’s performance and well-being but also has a profound impact on their current and prospective coaches, the wider training squads, and the overall coaching network. When handled well, a coach transition can be a positive step forward for an athlete’s development. However, when done poorly, it can lead to a decline in performance, loss of enjoyment in the sport, damaged relationships, and a breakdown in trust between coaches that can have long-term consequences for the sport as a whole.
Throughout my career, I’ve seen both ends of the spectrum. In some cases, a well-managed transition has ensured continuity in an athlete’s development, strengthened professional respect between coaches, and maintained a positive training environment for all involved. Unfortunately, I’ve also witnessed situations where poor communication and mismanagement have led to fractured relationships, strained reputations, and an unwillingness among coaches to collaborate in the future—all of which ultimately harm the athletes we are here to support.
This guide is designed to create a clear and respectful process that prioritises the athlete’s best interests while protecting the professionalism, rights, and dignity of all coaches involved. It acknowledges an athlete’s right to seek new coaching opportunities and guidance while ensuring that transitions are handled in a way that fosters respect, accountability, and ongoing cooperation within the coaching community. By following these guidelines, we can create an environment where athletes, coaches, and the broader athletics community continue to thrive.
Step-by-Step Process for Changing Coaches
Changing coaches is a major decision that should be handled with care, professionalism, and respect. Following the structured process below ensures a smooth transition for the athlete while maintaining strong relationships between all parties involved.
Tap each step for more details.
Athlete-Coach Discussion
Athlete:
'Thank the coach for their support.
Be clear on your reasons for leaving.
Don’t put off having the hard conversation.
Coach:
Respect the athlete’s decision
Actively listen to what they are telling you and avoid interrupting.
Coach-Coach Discussion
Be respectful both ways
Be open and clear on exactly how the athlete approached the new coach and what was discussed.
Try to ensure ongoign dialogue between coaches.
Don’t put off the hard conversation.
Make written notes of any key points that come up in conversation.
Under the AA Code of Conduct - Coaches are not able to accept the role of coaching a new athlete until they have consulted the athlete’s current coach, and the athlete has also informed their current coach. It is reasonable for an athlete to talk to a prospective coach prior to leaving or informing their current coach.
Your Responsibilities Under the Coach Code of Conduct
Not undermine the confidence of an athlete working with another coach.
Under no circumstances must a coach pursue, either covertly or overtly, an athlete that is presently engaged in a formal coaching relationship with another coach.
Not accept the role of coaching a new athlete until they have (a) consulted the current coach and (b) the athlete has informed their current coach of their intention to change coaches.
Recognise an athlete’s rights to consult with other coaches and advisors, including sports medicine / sports science professionals.
Respect the right of an athlete to change coaches and not obstruct an athlete from moving to another coach.
Reporting a Breach of the Code of Conduct
Code of Conduct breaches can be reported confidentially to Australian Athletics in writing or by registering for a callback via the form below.