Rowing Canada Aviron (RCA) is pleased to invite applications for the 2026–2027 Canada Coach Development Program. 

Building on the recent program launch and webinar series, we are excited to open the mentee coach application process for coaches across the country who are committed to their development and to advancing the sport of rowing in Canada. 

Running from July 2026 to March 2027, this program is designed to support coaches at key stages of their pathway through a combination of mentorship, targeted learning opportunities, and national connection. Participants will gain access to a high-value development experience that reflects RCA’s commitment to strengthening coaching across Canada. 

A key feature of the program is access to a group of highly experienced, carefully selected mentors who bring expertise from club, provincial, and national team environments and are committed to supporting the next generation of coaches. 

This program is made possible by the RCA membership, including contributions from the Special Investment Fee, which supports enhanced coach development initiatives such as mentorship, education, and national programming opportunities. 

What to Expect 

Selected mentees will benefit from: 

• Structured mentorship with experienced, high-performance coaches
• Access to coach-focused webinars and learning sessions 
• Opportunities to connect with a national network of coaches 

Program Streams 

Applicants are invited to apply to one of the following streams: 

1. Community Coach 

For coaches engaged in the NCCP Learn to Row or RCA Coach Pathway, typically working in Learn-to-Row, junior, masters, or university novice programs. 

Desired experience: 1–2 years of club-level coaching 

2. Regional Coach 

For coaches engaged in the NCCP RCA Coach or Performance Coach Pathway, with aspirations to lead club or provincial programs and support athletes at events such as Canada Cup or Canada Summer Games. 

Desired experience: 3+ years coaching athletes competing at provincial or national levels 

Who Should Apply 

We are seeking motivated coaches who: 

• Are committed to ongoing development and learning 
• Are actively coaching within a club or program environment 
• Want to contribute to the growth of rowing in Canada 
• Are ready to engage meaningfully in a structured mentorship experience 

Application Requirements 

Applicants will be asked to provide: 

• Coaching background, experience, and career aspirations 
• NCCP certification status and development plans 
• Coaching philosophy and motivation for applying 
• Areas of development focus 
• Commitment to active participation throughout the program 

Letter of Endorsement 

Applicants must include a letter of endorsement from a club representative (e.g., Club President, Head Coach, Executive Director). This letter should highlight: 

• Coaching contributions 
• Potential for growth 
• Club support for participation in the program 

*Letters of endorsement must be submitted by the June 21 application deadline. 

Key Dates 

·      Program timeline: July 2026 – March 2027 

·      Application deadline: June 21 2026

Apply Now 

We encourage all interested coaches to submit thoughtful and complete applications to help us better understand your goals and how we can support your development. For questions or to submit your letter of endorsement, please contact the RCA Manager of Coach Education and Development, Colleen Miller. 

For more information on the Canada Coach Program, visit our Special Investment page.

RCA Canada Coach Development Program Mentee Application