Originally Posted by
echappist
it also doesn't help that it's ridiculously easy for someone to become a USAC certified coach (though levels 2 and 1 do require more)
Level 3 is stupid easy. Level 2 requires a weekend commitment at a clinic. Level 1 requires 5 years as a Level 2 (or 3 years +200 CE hours) plus a long weekend in COS.
Anyone who's attained Level 1 status has put in substantial effort.