All Head Coaches must have a USSF-approved coaching certification in order to coach with BSA. If you don’t yet have the certification, it is a fun, easy process and will either (a) put to rest any concerns you have that you know what you are doing, or (b) help your team by advancing your own coaching development. Check out the Calsouth coaching education program and licensing schedule (link at left).
Head Coaches, Assistant Coaches, and Team Representatives must obtain a coaches card through the Registrar prior to assuming duties. The card must be visible (worn) at all timed during team practices, games, and team function. The card signifies that the head coach has been Livescanned and has obtained the appropriate coaching certification
Assistant Coaches are encouraged to obtain a license as well, but it is not required. Head coaches should plan to meet this requirement before September 1. The earlier you obtain your license, the better you will be able to coach.
The required license is based on the age of your team:
- Clinic (U6 and U7) and U8 Coaches must take a Youth Module-1 course (YM-1). This is a three-and-one-half hour class and costs $15 (BSA will reimburse cost). A YM-3 certification will also qualify you to coach in these divisions.
- U10, U12, U14, U16, and U19 Coaches must take a Youth Module-3 course (YM-3). This is a five-hour class and costs $15 (BSA will reimburse cost). A YM-1 certification does not qualify you to coach is these divisions
- The next level of coaching license, required to coach competitive soccer, is the “E” license. This is an 18-hour class and costs $85 (BSA will reimburse cost).
- Registration is required; walk-ins may be turned away if the class is full.
- Time and locations are subject to change; check the Calsouth website for up-to-date information.
If you are not sure what license level you have, contact the Registrar who can check with Calsouth for you. Calsouth does not mail certificates for YM-1 or YM-3 courses so you might not have anything on paper to show for your efforts at one of these courses. Licenses never expire. And if you have an E License you do not have to obtain a YM-3 license.
Once you have registered for the Coach Certification Course, here is what else you need to know:
- Bring $15 cash as you will be paying at the course (BSA will reimburse the cost to the coach through the submittal of a Directive Form and receipt to the BSA Bookkeeper; a directive form can be obtained on the forms page.
- Dress ready to play. You will be participating in soccer activities.
- Bring a ball. Cleats and shinguards are fine if you have them.
- Wear sunscreen.
- Bring water, a pen, and paper.
Remember, Livescan and licensing are separate processes. All head coaches, assistant coaches, and team representatives must be Livescanned.
