Becoming a Children's Soccer Coach
Transform your passion for soccer into a meaningful career. Learn what it takes to get certified and start coaching youth soccer in the United States.
How do you become a children's soccer coach in the US?
It's not as simple as showing up at your local club and volunteering to run the U-12s. Youth soccer in the United States is governed by a clear licensing structure that ensures every coach working with children meets a professional standard.
US Soccer, the national governing body, oversees a coaching education pathway that all reputable clubs, leagues, and academies require their coaches to complete. This pathway is designed to give aspiring coaches the tactical knowledge, player development skills, and safeguarding awareness they need before stepping onto the field with young players.
The system is built around US Soccer Coaching Licenses, recognized as the gold standard for soccer coaching certification in the country. The various license levels give coaches the practical tools to plan sessions, develop players, and build age-appropriate training environments. Coaches also gain access to a national network of mentors and fellow educators through US Soccer's coaching community.
What Are FA Coaching Badges?
US Soccer's coaching education pathway includes several tiers. At the grassroots level, the Grassroots Licenses (4v4, 7v7, 9v9, and 11v11) are designed for coaches working with players from U-6 through U-12. These introductory courses focus on creating positive, age-appropriate environments and are accessible to anyone — no prior coaching experience required.
Beyond grassroots, the pathway progresses through the National D License, which covers foundational coaching methodology for youth and adult players. The National C License builds on this with more advanced session design, game management, and player development principles.
For coaches aiming to work at higher competitive levels, the National B License and National A License provide elite-level education in tactical analysis, team management, and long-term athlete development. The Pro License sits at the top — the credential required to coach in MLS and other professional environments.
Core skills for coaching young soccer players
Coaching children demands more than soccer knowledge. You'll need strong communication, patience, and a deep understanding of child development to inspire young players and keep them coming back week after week.
Safety first
Understand child protection protocols and create a secure environment for learning and playing.
Communication skills
Learn to connect with children and parents through clear, positive, and encouraging language.
Structured learning
Design age-appropriate sessions that balance skill development with fun and engagement.
Continuous improvement
Develop a reflective practice that helps you grow as a coach and support young players' development.
Take your first steps in soccer coaching
Your coaching journey begins with structured learning and practical experience. Start with online courses and build your skills through consistent practice.
Free and low-cost grassroots courses to get started
Introduction to Coaching: Comprehensive online training for new coaches
Volunteer opportunities to gain practical experience
International & Pro Coaching Courses
At the higher end, the National B License is where coaches begin working with competitive-level players in 11v11 formats. It focuses on advanced tactical concepts, in-game coaching decisions, and developing a personal coaching philosophy that translates to match performance.
The National A License goes further, preparing coaches for roles at the collegiate, semi-professional, and professional levels. It emphasizes leadership, team culture, and sophisticated periodization of training across a full season.
The Pro License is the pinnacle of US Soccer's coaching education. It's required for head coaches in MLS and the NWSL, and covers high-performance management, media relations, and elite-level tactical preparation. Only a select number of candidates are admitted each year.
Each level builds on the one before it, creating a clear progression from grassroots volunteer to professional-level coach.
What does a coach need to teach soccer to children in the US?
To start coaching youth soccer in the United States, you'll need to complete at least one of US Soccer's Grassroots License courses. The 4v4 Grassroots License is the entry point for coaches working with the youngest age groups (U-6 and U-8).
Grassroots courses are short, affordable, and available both online and in-person across the country. They cover session planning, age-appropriate activities, and how to create a safe, fun environment for children. No prior soccer experience is needed to enroll.
In addition to your coaching license, most youth leagues and organizations require coaches to complete a background check and SafeSport certification through the U.S. Center for SafeSport. This training covers abuse prevention, reporting protocols, and creating safe athletic environments for minors.
If you become a franchise owner with We Make Footballers, you'll also complete our own in-house training program. This has been developed using techniques from top academies worldwide and is tailored to the US youth soccer landscape. It covers coaching methodology, session delivery, and everything you need to operate your franchise business — from booking software to local marketing strategy.
Once you've completed your grassroots license, SafeSport certification, background check, and WMF training, you'll be ready to start coaching.
How Can I Book Courses?
US Soccer Grassroots License courses are offered regularly throughout the year. You can find dates, locations, and register through US Soccer's coaching education portal. Many state associations also run their own coaching education programs that align with the national pathway.
If you're unsure about pursuing your license independently, working with an established coaching organization like We Make Footballers can simplify the process. We guide our franchise owners through the licensing requirements and provide hands-on mentorship as you develop your coaching skills.
Local clubs and recreational leagues are also a good starting point. Many are actively looking for committed coaches and can point you toward the right courses for your area. Some organizations will even cover course fees for coaches who commit to volunteering or working with their programs.
We Make Footballers supports our franchise owners through each licensing stage because it benefits everyone — better-qualified coaches deliver better sessions, which means happier players and stronger businesses.
Are There Any Alternative Soccer Coaching Licenses Available?
Yes. Beyond US Soccer's core licensing pathway, there are several additional certifications that can strengthen your coaching profile. United Soccer Coaches (formerly the NSCAA) offers its own diploma program with courses ranging from grassroots to advanced levels.
We Make Footballers also offer specialist training modules — including 1v1 development and small-group methodology — that complement your US Soccer license and deepen your technical knowledge.
US Soccer and its state affiliates also provide specialty courses in goalkeeper coaching, futsal, and coaching players with disabilities. These modules help coaches expand their expertise and serve a broader range of players.
All of these supplementary certifications work alongside your core US Soccer license. The grassroots or D License remains the essential foundation — everything else builds on top of it.
FAQs
Clear answers to help you start your journey in youth soccer coaching in the United States
No experience is required to start. The BT Playmaker course is designed for beginners and provides a solid foundation in coaching fundamentals. Your passion and willingness to learn matter most.
The initial BT Playmaker and Introduction to Coaching Football courses can be completed online in a few weeks. Full certification pathways vary from several months to a year depending on your chosen level.
Most FA coaching courses are flexible and designed for working professionals. Online modules and weekend workshops make it possible to balance training with your current job.
You'll need the BT Playmaker and Introduction to Coaching Football as minimum requirements. A current DBS check and safeguarding certification are also essential for coaching children.
We Make Footballers offers comprehensive in-house training, business systems support, marketing guidance, and ongoing professional development to help you build a successful coaching franchise.
Need more information?
Our team is ready to answer your specific coaching questions
Becoming a Coach with We Make Footballers
If you've read this far, you're clearly serious about coaching youth soccer. Why not start your journey with We Make Footballers? As a franchise owner, you'll turn your passion into a career with the backing of a proven brand, full training, ongoing support, and guidance on growing your coaching business. Download our information pack or book a call with our team and take the first step toward building your soccer coaching career in the US.
