Since enactment of Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, the number of high school sports programs has increased geometrically. This pattern of growth has created an ever-increasing demand for trained coaches at all levels of high school and middle school competition. While the term trained may be defined variously, legal definitions, court cases and professional standards of care have clearly identified various competencies and performance expectations for coaches. In courts, these standards have placed increased responsibilities on athletic directors. First, is an obligation to carefully screen candidates for coaching positions during the hiring process. Second, is the responsibility to provide in-service training opportunities to ensure that all coaches are prepared for their work with children of variable skill and maturity levels.