National Coaches Day

National Coaches Day is celebrated in the USA on October 6 and honors the work of all coaches and mentors. The purpose of this holiday is not only to appreciate and recognize coaches on this special day but also to remember their contributions every day.

History

National Coaches Day was established in 1972 and proclaimed by President Richard Nixon, the 37th President of the United States. He recognized the crucial role coaches play in all areas, not just in sports but also in intellectual fields like chess. Coaches are more than just teachers—they are mentors and friends who help instill important qualities in their students. A great example is Herb Brooks, the American hockey player and coach who became famous after leading the US hockey team to victory over the Soviet team at the 1980 Winter Olympics—an event now known as the “Miracle on Ice.”

Interesting Facts

• Vicente del Bosque, after being dismissed from Real Madrid, could not step onto his balcony because it overlooked the club’s training grounds.
• In 2005, José Mourinho was banned from managing Chelsea from the field, so he sneaked into the locker room by hiding in a laundry basket.
• Spanish coach Juande Ramos was fired from three different teams on October 26—in 2007, 2008, and 2009.

How to Take Part

If you have a mentor or coach, now is the perfect time to show your appreciation for their work. Give them a meaningful gift and share how their guidance has impacted your life. You can also talk to your children about the importance of coaches and mentors and encourage them to consider this profession.

When is National Coaches Day in 2025?

National Coaches Day is observed on October 6 each year.

Observations