U.S. Soccer Coach Licensing Courses
Grassroots License
Coaches learn about the basic needs of grassroots players, structure of the game & a training session, and the tasks of a grassroots coach. These licenses prepare coaches to work with players ages U6-U13 and older in a participation environment and focus on 4v4, 7v7, 9v9, & 11v11 game models.
Course Experience
Each 4-hour course can be held in-person or blended (virtual classroom + in-person field session). Coaches will discuss, collaborate, and develop knowledge and skills on topics such as leadership, coaching in training session and games, and managing the performance environment.
Learn More 'D' License
Coaches are taught how to create environments that are inclusive, fun, and safe for children (ages U6-U12) and that promote their love for the game. Coaches will learn to organize, design, and implement game-like training activities and create inclusive game day environments that encourage players’ autonomy.
Course Experience
The course is 9 weeks with a blended learning approach that includes four in-person days, weekly virtual meetings, individual meetings with the instructor, independent learning & investigation / research, and assignments.
Learn More 'C' License
Coaches are taught to assess, organize, design, and implement strategies for player and team development in a participation environment for players ages U11-U19. The curriculum is designed around U.S. Soccer's: style of play, player development framework, and coaching processes related to training environments & games.
Course Experience
Coaches participate in weekly virtual classrooms, complete assignments, and attend an in-person session during this 4-month course. Coaches collaborate and develop knowledge & skills around team & individual player management, plan & execute in training and games based on the Game Model, and establish their coaching philosophy.
Learn More 'B' License
Coaches are prepared to work with youth (ages U13+) or senior teams in a performance environment. Course goals include evaluating team & player development related to a Game Model and optimizing the learning environment. Coaches will explore their own leadership style and learn to apply a player-centered approach to Individual Development Plans and periodization.
Course Experience
Coaches participate in weekly virtual classrooms, complete assignments, and attend 2 in-person sessions during this 6-month course. Coaches complete individual and small group assignments and meet 1-on-1 with their instructor. Candidates are assessed on a variety of topics including leadership, performance analysis, and coaching in training sessions & games.
Learn More WAIVER REQUEST: U.S. Soccer recognizes certain foreign coaching certifications as fulfilling the prerequisites for specific courses on the U.S. Soccer Coaching Education pathway. Candidates holding such recognized certifications may be integrated into the National ‘B’ or National ‘C’ Course based on the level of credentials earned through a recognizable foreign organization (i.e. UEFA, CSA, AFC). To begin this process, please click here. Submit a completed waiver and supporting documentation to US Club Soccer Director of Coach Education, Vince Ganzberg.
U.S. Soccer Coaching Education Supplemental Courses
Director of Coaching
The Director of Coaching (DOC) course focuses on preparing candidates to work as a technical leader of a youth soccer club in a participation environment. Key learning objectives include creating a player-centered development environment to develop the player on and off the field and developing a safe training and competitive environment.
Course Experience
Courses can be held in-person or blended (virtual classroom + one 5-day in-person meeting) and last 3 months. Coaches collaborate & discuss in group meetings, work independently & attend 1-on-1 meetings with their instructor. Candidates are assessed on leadership, strategic planning, and player & staff development and develop a plan for continued professional development.
Learn More Coach for Community
Coach for Community events provide coaching education resources for grassroots coaches and are intended to help increase player participation, as well as retain players and coaches. The goal of these events is to share best practices for player development including coaching games and practices, provide expertise in Grassroots Coach Education, and share member benefits for the host organization.
Course Experience
Coach For Community is a free program that can be held virtual or in-person. Some events are held for a specific audience, but most are designed for a wide ranging audience. Events are typically 1-3 hours in length and may include classroom and/or field sessions. Upon completion, each person who attended the event receives a voucher for an online U.S. Soccer Grassroots course.
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