How to Become a Licensed Soccer Coach
I am a licensed (certified) soccer coach. What exactly does that mean? Well, about a decade ago I decided to start coaching youth soccer. I quickly discovered that getting a coaching position would require me to become "licensed" or "certified". Within American youth soccer there are two organizations recognized as official certifying bodies for coaches, the National Soccer Coaches Association of American (NSCAA) and the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF).
At the time I decided to pursue coaching I reached out to my daughter's then coach, Jerry Ellison. Jerry directed me to these two organizations to gain the necessary knowledge and certifications it would take for me to begin my coaching journey. I currently hold many different licenses and certifications from both NSCAA and USSF.
I wanted to write this post for any current coaches or those of you who would like to start on your coaching journey to assist you in finding out exactly where to go to get the best available coaching education, licenses, and certifications. Admittedly this information is already available online but it can be a little confusing and would be easier to understand if it were all in one easy to find location.
There are also a few other organizations that offer coaching courses to help supplement your coaching education. Coerver Coaching offers the Youth Diploma and US Youth Soccer offers the National Youth Coaching Course.
The path for obtaining your license or certification starts with the lowest level. To move up to the next level in both organizations usually requires holding a license for a specified amount of time (6-12 months). Also, as you move higher up you will eventually be required to pass a “test” at the end of your training. The tests can consist of written, oral, and practical or field sessions.
Below is an outline of the coaching course structure for each organization. The cost for each individual course varies so be sure to click on the the accompanied links to see full registration details.
NSCAA (click here for full details)
Development
4v4
7v7/9v9
11v11
Special Topics
Foundations of Coaching
Advanced
National
Advanced National
Premier
Director of Coaching
Master Coach
Master's Degree in Soccer Coaching
Goalkeeping
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Advanced National Goalkeeping Diploma
High School
High School Diploma
High School Diploma: Leadership and Management
High School Diploma: Systems and Tactics - Team Training
eLearning
Level 1 Futsal
Small Sided Games:4v4, 7v7 and 9v9
Attacking Principles of Play
Defending Principles of Play
Key Moments in the Game
LGBT: Diversity and Inclusion Online Diploma Course
Foundations of Coaching
Player Development Curriculum
USSF (click here for full details)
Pro
A - Senior Course
A - Youth Course
National B
National C
National D
National E
National F