Important Dates
Application opens: September 5, 2025, 8 a.m. EST
Application closes: October 10, 2025, 5 p.m. EST
Participants notified: December 2025
Feb. 18-20, 2026
Indianapolis, IN
The NCAA and NFL Coaches Academy provides current, full-time college football coaches at NCAA member schools an educational opportunity to build connections and develop leadership acumen to pursue their career aspirations.
Coaches engage with industry experts and peers across a wide range of topics designed to strengthen effectiveness as a coach and leader. Focus areas include communication with campus and community stakeholders, building a culture centered on student-athlete success, football program budget management, and coaching strategies and philosophies. Participants also explore approaches to managing personal well-being amid the demands of a coaching career.
Current full-time position coaches, coordinators, and assistant or associate head coaches at NCAA member institutions.
This event is in-person only.
This event is a three-day experience.
Participants are responsible for travel to and from Indianapolis. The NCAA covers lodging, meals and program materials.
Why Participate?
Strengthen leadership and management skills applicable to collegiate football programs.
Gain insight from experienced NCAA and NFL leaders and industry experts.
Build a national peer network to support professional growth and career advancement.
Develop strategies to balance performance, culture and personal well-being in coaching roles.
What participants do
- Participate in interactive, in-person leadership and professional development sessions
- Engage in small-group discussions and peer learning with coaches from across the country
- Explore real-world scenarios related to program management, communication and leadership
- Collaborate with NCAA and NFL representatives on best practices and career development topics
In addition to the educational experience developed in collaboration with the NFL, participants gain access to a strong peer network that provides ongoing support throughout their coaching careers. Completion of the academy equips coaches with practical leadership tools and a professional network to support both current responsibilities and future aspirations.
Eligibility
Current full-time position coaches, coordinators, and assistant or associate head coaches at NCAA member institutions are eligible to apply.