Meet Daniel “Coach” Coates—a man whose life took a dramatic turn thanks to chiropractic care. From coaching athletes to embarking on a journey to becoming a chiropractor, Coach Coates shares his inspiring story of transformation, resilience, and a newfound purpose. If you’ve ever wondered what chiropractic school is like or how to become a chiropractor, Coach’s journey is a testament that it’s never too late to follow a new path.
When Life Gives You Chiropractic
Coach Coates’ story starts like many who discover chiropractic—through personal experience. After suffering from debilitating back pain and struggling with his weight (topping 450 pounds), Coach found himself at a crossroads. Enter Dr. Cooper, a chiropractor who had already helped some of Coach’s athletes with their injuries. Dr. Cooper suggested a simple question that changed everything:
“Have you ever thought about being a chiropractor?”
Coach’s initial reaction was, “I can’t.” But Dr. Cooper didn’t let him off that easy, reminding him that “can’t” wasn’t a word Coach allowed his own athletes to use. That moment lit a fire inside him.
After seeing the life-changing impact chiropractic had on his health—losing 170 pounds and eliminating medications he had been on for 18 years—Coach knew he had found his purpose.
Why Chiropractic School?
Deciding to go to chiropractic school wasn’t just a career move; it was deeply personal for Coach Coates. He had witnessed firsthand how chiropractic care had transformed his life, and now he wanted to pay it forward.
What sets chiropractic apart for him is the profound connection it creates—not just with the body, but with the mind and soul. For Coach, chiropractic was more than healing physical ailments. It was about unlocking his true potential and helping others do the same.
At Life Chiropractic College West (often regarded as one of the best chiropractic schools), Coach is on track to graduate in December 2025. His future plans? Precepting at Cooperstown Chiropractic and continuing his journey by helping people in his community and around the world.
What’s Chiropractic School Like?
Many people ask, What is chiropractic school like? According to Coach, it’s tougher than anything he’s ever done—but well worth it. Chiropractic programs are rigorous, covering everything from anatomy and physiology to chiropractic technique and philosophy. For Coach, each challenge has been an opportunity to grow stronger, mentally and physically.
Becoming a chiropractor is about much more than just learning adjustments. It’s about learning how to connect with patients, understanding their stories, and helping them reclaim their health and lives.
Advice for Future Chiropractors
Coach Coates is living proof that it’s never too late to embrace a new calling. His advice for those considering chiropractic school?
- Believe in yourself, even if others doubt your abilities.
- Be open to new possibilities. Chiropractic might not be on your radar now, but it could change your life, just like it did for him.
- Remember, it’s not about you. It’s about the people you’re meant to help.
As Coach puts it, “The journey will be tougher than anything you’ve ever done, but it will also be the most rewarding.”
Finding the Best Chiropractic School
If you’re thinking about becoming a chiropractor, start by researching chiropractic programs near you. Schools like Life West are known for their holistic approach and strong community support—qualities that have been essential for students like Coach Coates.
No matter what your path looks like, chiropractic school is a life-changing journey. And as Coach’s story shows, it’s never too late to rewrite your story and help others along the way.
Interested in learning more about chiropractic programs near you? Reach out to Life Chiropractic College West or explore your options today!
