Checklist to become an AYSO Coach:
- Register as a volunteer. Got to http//www.memphis-soccer.com > "Login" > Volunteer > Find Volunteer Roles
- Complete the online AYSO Safe Haven Certification.
- Complete the online U.S. SafeSport Course
- Complete the online CDC Concussion course
- Age-Specific Coach Courses (online and/or in person)
AYSO Safe Haven Certification
All AYSO Coaches (all volunteers) must complete the AYSO Safe Haven certification. This ensures that the well-being of the child is placed first, the philosophies of AYSO are understood and teaches the coaches risk management to avoid putting themselves in positions hazardous to themselves and the children. It is also part of the requirements to be covered under the Volunteer Protection Act. If you have questions about the AYSO Safe Haven course, contact CVPA/Safety Director.
CDC Concussion Course
By taking this free, online course and using what you learn, you will be well positioned to improve the culture of concussion. Your actions can help create a safe environment for young athletes so that they can stay healthy, active, and thrive - both on and off the playing field. Upon completion of this training, you can print out a certificate, making it easy to show your league or school you are ready for the season. If you have questions about the CDC Concussion course, contact CVPA/Safety Director. (State of Michigan requires CDC Concussion Course must be retaken every 3 years)
U.S. SafeSport Course
The 2017 SafeSport Act has expanded Mandated Reporters to include adults authorized to interact with children. Due to this expansion, that includes AYSO and it requires training on child abuse and mandated reporting. Effective, January 1, 2022, U.S. Soccer will no longer allow equivalent training* and has mandated SafeSport training. If you have questions about the U.S. SafeSport course, contact CVPA/Safety Director.
Age-Specific Training - U6, U8, U10 and U12 Coach Certifications
These four coaching courses focus on working with the player in these age divisions to create a fun learning environment. Coaches in 6U, 8U, 10U, and 12U must have the age-specific coach certification for the age they are coaching. There are no substitutes nor will higher level courses satisfy the requirement. These courses have no pre-requisite and may be taken individually or in any order. Completing the age-specific Coach Course is required for head coach and assistant coach, and required if the team wishes to compete in a tournament.
NOTE: The 6U, 8U, and 10U Coach Trainings can be completed online (https://www.aysou.org). The 10U Coach Training has an in-person field review. The 12U Coach Training has classroom and field portion.
Intermediate, Advanced and National Coach Certifications
These upper level courses build upon each other, thus a coach with the Advanced Coach certification may also coach teams needing only the Intermediate Coach certification. However, these do not confer the age-specific certification needed to coach 6U-12U. A coach who holds an Intermediate Coach or above certification and wishes to coach in U10, must also hold a U10 Coach certification. U14 coaches must have at least the Intermediate Coach certification. U19 coaches must have the Advanced Coach certification. The National Coach certification is for coaches who desire to further advance their skills and offer a greater level of support to their region.