April 7, 2026
Starting a soccer coaching business in the US is more achievable than most people think. You don't need to be a former professional player or hold an advanced license to get started. What you do need is a genuine passion for youth development, the willingness to learn, and the right support system behind you.
US Soccer oversees a clear coaching education pathway. At the grassroots level, licenses covering 4v4 through 11v11 formats are designed for coaches working with players aged U-6 through U-12. These introductory courses are accessible to anyone and focus on creating positive, age-appropriate environments. Beyond grassroots, the pathway progresses through the National D, C, B, and A Licenses, with the Pro License at the top for coaches working in professional environments like MLS and NWSL.
In addition to coaching licenses, anyone working with minors in the US needs SafeSport certification and a background check. These are standard requirements across all youth sports organizations.
Many coaches start by volunteering with local clubs or running informal sessions at parks. While this is a great way to gain experience, building a sustainable business from scratch requires handling marketing, bookings, payments, venue sourcing, insurance, coach recruitment, and curriculum development on your own.
A franchise model like We Make Footballers removes most of those barriers. You get a proven curriculum, a booking platform (Parent Area) and national marketing campaigns targeted to your territory. Initial training typically takes five days - two days online and three days in person in South Florida - and must be completed before you open. Ongoing support includes up to five hours of individual consulting per year, four dedicated performance meetings per year, five Veo session reports per year, ten group calls per year and access to the end-of-year conference.
The franchise fee is $17,500 for a territory containing at least 15,000 children aged 4-12, or $30,000 for a territory containing at least 30,000. Your territory is individually defined based on the local population of children aged 4-12. Its boundaries, territorial protections and WMF's reserved rights are set out in the Franchise Disclosure Document and franchise agreement. On top of the franchise fee there is an equipment fee ($3,000) and launch marketing ($1,250), plus an estimated $5,000 in additional funds to cover your first three months (see FDD Item 7). Estimated total initial investment: $31,199-$53,000 (see FDD Item 7). Financing is available, subject to approval, for up to 50% of the initial franchise fee over three years, with a $4,000 financing charge. Full details are disclosed in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
If you're ready to take the first step, book a call with our team to discuss available territories in your area.
