The RBIHF Coach Certification Series for 2026–27 starts on September 12–13 in Mechelen, with Coach Learn to Play, Level 1 and Level 2 programmes. These certifications are essential for coaches working in RBIHF competitions, from U8 through Division 1. The €185 fee covers the full season-long programme, including the mandatory kickoff weekend, practical evaluations, regional supervision and lunch. Applications close on Monday, September 7, so coaches wishing to certify or upgrade should register now.
A full-season development programme
Coach certification within the RBIHF is more than a single weekend.
The September 12–13 kickoff in Mechelen marks the start of a season-long certification pathway, combining theory, practical sessions, assignments and follow-up inside the coach’s own club environment.
The kickoff weekend is mandatory for all participants and will include both classroom sessions and practical work. Every student will also go on the ice twice during the weekend.
As in previous years, the programme will include a combination of Belgian instructors, federation representatives and invited international coaches contributing to the different certification levels.
Which certification do you need?
The required certification depends on the level at which you are coaching within RBIHF competitions:
- Coach Learn to Play (LTP) – required for coaches working on the ice with U8, U10 and U12
- Coach Level 1 – required for coaches working on the bench with U14 and U16
- Coach Level 2 – required for coaches working with U18, U23, Division 2 and Division 1
Holding the correct and valid coaching certification is therefore an important requirement for coaches who want to be active in our national competitions.
A more practical certification process
Starting this season, the RBIHF is moving towards an even more practical approach to coach education.
Participants will still be expected to demonstrate their knowledge of key coaching topics, but certification will no longer focus only on theory and submitted assignments.
Coaches will also be observed and evaluated during practices within their own clubs.
Throughout the season, our Regional Development Managers will support and supervise participants locally, helping coaches translate what they learn during the course into their daily work with players.
The objective is simple: certification should not only demonstrate what a coach knows, but also how that knowledge is applied on the ice.
Kickoff Weekend – Mechelen
Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13, 2026
The weekend will combine:
- Theoretical coach education
- Practical workshops
- Two on-ice sessions for every participant
- Level-specific instruction
- Interaction with Belgian and international instructors
- Information about assignments, supervision and evaluation during the season
The complete course will be delivered in English.
Lunch during the kickoff weekend is included for all participants.
One fee for the entire season
The participation fee is €185.
This fee covers the complete certification programme for the season, including the kickoff weekend, course activities, assignments, supervision and evaluation throughout the year.
There will be no additional course fees introduced later in the season for the required certification activities.
Applications close September 7
For organisational reasons, registrations must be completed no later than Monday, September 7.
If you are coaching this season, planning to move to a higher level, or still need the appropriate certification for the team you will be working with, make sure you register before the deadline.
The new season starts with better-prepared coaches — and better coaches help create better players.
Register now for the 2026–27 RBIHF Coach Certification Series.