Educator Certification Course July 1-2, 2025

Educator Certification Course July 1-2, 2025

  • Ages 18+

Training and professional development for educators seeking to implement the Iliad Athletics physical education approach and curriculum.

By Iliad Athletics

Date and time

Starts on Tuesday, July 1 · 8:30am EDT

Location

Hillsdale College Hayden Park

1620 Barber Drive Hillsdale, MI 49242

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event

Agenda

June 12 Schedule
June 13 Schedule

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Welcome and Course Introduction

8:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Iliad Principles & Curriculum

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Field Demonstration

12:00 PM - 12:30 PM

Lunch

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Research and Rationale

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Exercise: Structuring a Functional Workout

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Integrating Character Development

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Reflection and Q&A

About this event

  • Event lasts -19 days 8 hours
  • Ages 18+
  • Free venue parking

What is the Educator Certification Course?

The Iliad Athletics Educator Certification Course is a transformative two-day training designed for educators, coaches, parents, principals, and anyone passionate about physical education. Held in Hillsdale, MI, this program equips participants with the knowledge and tools to implement the Iliad Athletics curriculum effectively, ensuring its full impact on students of all ages, K-12.

The Iliad Athletics curriculum is more than a collection of lesson plans—it’s a complete system that fosters Fitness, Nature, and Character development in students. To unlock its potential, proper implementation is key. This certification course bridges the gap, providing participants with hands-on experience and expert guidance to bring this innovative program to life in their schools or communities.


What Does the Course Include?

The Educator Certification Course consists of two days of training with Iliad Athletics coaches in Hillsdale, Michigan including classroom presentations, discussions, field training, and exercises. Throughout the event participants will:

  • Receive an introduction to the Iliad Athletics foundation, principles, and curriculum.
  • Learn how to deliver daily lesson plans that focus on building physical fluency and resilience.
  • Master the use of benchmarking and ability-group incentives to foster a culture of achievement.
  • Gain practical experience in teaching fundamental movements and incorporating outdoor activities.
  • Understand how to integrate character development and leadership training into physical education.
  • Plan how to implement the curriculum and approach in a variety of school and schedule environments.


Logistics

Location

All course activities will take place at Hayden Park in Hillsdale, Michigan. Participants should park in the lot closest to the road and gather at the Clubhouse.


Attire

Participants should plan to wear comfortable, weather appropriate exercise clothing. If you have a condition that will prevent you from participating in exercise demonstrations, respectful casual attire is requested.


Gear

Please bring a backpack that can hold 25-35lbs as well as a water bottle.


Lodging

Participants will need to secure their own lodging in Hillsdale for the duration of the camp. In addition to Air B&B, here are a few recommendations:

The Dow Center

Gateway Campground (a rustic option with cabins available for rental)

Days Inn


Provisions

We will provide lunch both days. Participants are encouraged to explore Hillsdale's local shops and restaurants for breakfast and dinner.


Frequently asked questions

What are the physical requirements to participate in the course?

To get the most out of the course we recommend that every participant be capable of walking for up to a mile, standing for up to two hours at a time, and lifting and carrying up to 35lbs. We will conduct exercise demonstrations for and with participants and encourage all who are able to join.

Can you accommodate disabilities?

Yes! While some parts of the course invite physical participation, you can still gain value if unable to participate. If you require specific accommodation, please reach out so we can be sure to facilitate your training.

Is there a shuttle service from the airport?

Unfortunately, since we're over an hour away from the closest airports (Detroit, Lansing, South Bend), there is no regular shuttle service. We recommend a rental car to get around Hillsdale and are happy to connect you to other participants to carpool.

Organized by

Iliad Athletics

Drawing inspiration from the demands of daily life, including military and first responder training, along with classical and modern approaches to physical education, our program prepares students for the challenges of life—not just the gym.

Recent research underscores the impact of our approach: regular physical activity in children has been shown to improve cognitive performance, focus, and academic outcomes. Time spent in nature enhances mental health, reduces stress, and fosters creativity. Additionally, teamwork and structured challenges build character, resilience, and leadership, equipping students with critical life skills.

Unlike modern PE programs confined to indoor spaces and plastic props, Iliad Athletics emphasizes functional movement, outdoor experiences, and purposeful challenges. By reintroducing students to fitness in its most authentic form, we cultivate not just stronger bodies but stronger minds and spirits. At Iliad Athletics, we’re building the next generation to thrive—in school and in life.

$999