COACHING EDUCATION OVERVIEW
Current F License Schedule HERE
Current E License Schedule: HERE
Current D License Schedule: HERE
USSF National Coaching Schools Schedule HERE
USSF National Youth License Schedule HERE
NSCAA Non-Residential Course Schedule HERE
NSCAA Residential Course Schedule HERE
F License
The F license is an 9-hour INTRODUCTORY course combining field sessions and classroom instruction which introduces a very basic coaching and teaching methodology. It is mandatory for all coaches.
Topics covered:
• Methods of coaching
• Prevention and care of injuries
• Laws of the Game
• Small-sided games
Prerequisites:
• None
Course Length: 9 hours of instruction
• 2 hours classroom
• 7 hours field sessions
Testing:
• There is no testing for this course
E License
The E license is an 18-hour course combining field sessions and classroom instruction demonstrating an intermediate coaching and teaching methodology. It is recommended for all coaches involved with U10-U14 teams. This is a Pass/Fail course.
Topics covered:
• Methods of coaching
• Team administration and risk management
• Prevention and care of injuries
• Coaching technique
• Coaching tactics
• Laws of the Game
• Principles of attack and defense
• Small-sided games
Prerequisites:
• NJYS F license
Course Length: 18 hours of instructions
• 5 hours classroom
• 13 hours field sessions
Testing:
• Candidates must pass written and practical coaching tests
D License
The D license is a 36-hour course combining field sessions and classroom instruction demonstrating a comprehensive coaching and teaching methodology. It is recommended for all coaches involved with U15-U18 teams. This is a Pass/Fail course. Based on performance, candidate grades are Not Ready, State “D” and National “D”. Candidates earning a National “D” may advance to the National “C” in 12 months. Candidates earning a Not Ready or State “D” may re-test after 6 months.
Topics covered:
• Methods of coaching
• Team management
• Prevention and care of injuries
• Coaching technique
• Coaching tactics
• Laws of the Game
• Systems of play
• Match analysis
• Principles of play
Prerequisites:
• NJYS E license
Course Length: 36 hours of instructions
• 12 hours classroom
• 24 hours field sessions
Testing:
• Methods of coaching – oral and video test
• Tactics – oral video test
• Laws of the Game – take home written test
• Prevention and care of injuries – take home written test
• Practical field session – methods & coaching of assigned topic
Tips for coaches taking the NJYS F, E or D License courses:
- Read the manual. It’s packed with info that isn’t covered in the lecture sessions.
- Know the coaching points inside and out, fully understand the principles of play.
- Avoid soccer buzzwords - you’re coaching kids. Evaluators want to see the concepts taught, they don’t want a high level, technical lecture.
- Don’t talk too much - get your session started quickly.
- Practice your session before you need to present it in the course. Take the time to identify potential challenges or areas that bring out your coaching points beforehand. Determine in advance how large the grid or field needs to be (if your grid is the wrong size and you do not correct it, that's a massive red flag for the evaluator).
- Bring lots of water, sunscreen, and spare clothes & socks if you take courses during the summer.
- Bring a note pad. Take good notes on all the various sessions and activities the evaluators and the other candidates present. This is a great way to build a collection of new activities to try with your team.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- Maintain a positive outlook, don’t get caught up with “am I passing or failing”.
- DO NOT argue with the evaluators or try to prove you know more than they do. Their job is to help you learn and pass the course but keep in mind, they have decades of successful coaching experience, they have earned the USSF 'A' license, and they are astute students of the game. Arguing with them or telling them they’re wrong isn’t a great strategy.
- ENJOY THE COURSE. Not only are you investing time to become a better coach and improve your players’ ability to play and enjoy the game, but it’s a great opportunity to meet other coaches and members of the soccer community who share your passion and commitment to the game.
VALUE OF TAKING COACHING COURSES VIDEO
LINKS TO COURSE DOCUMENTS
- In the lower right hand corner of the page, click files
- Select any of the course documents listed, they can be saved directly to your PC
