🧠 Coaching at AYSO Region 158: What You Need to Know
Welcome to the heart of our program — the coaches! Whether you're new or seasoned, this page outlines everything you need to lead with confidence, positivity, and purpose.
✅ Certification & Training Requirements
All coaches must complete the following before stepping on the field:
- AYSO Age-Specific Coaching Course (online + in-person)
- AYSO Safe Haven Certification
- CDC Concussion Awareness
- SafeSport Training
- Annual Background Check
- Sudden Cardiac Arrest Training (recommended for all, required in some states)
Training is available online via AYSOU and supported by our Coach Admin team. We’ll help you get certified and confident.
🧭 Coaching Philosophy
AYSO coaches are stewards of the game. We teach more than soccer — we build character, confidence, and community.
We uphold AYSO’s Six Core Philosophies:
Everyone Plays | Balanced Teams | Open Registration | Positive Coaching | Good Sportsmanship | Player Development
Your role includes:
- Creating a safe, inclusive, and fun environment
- Teaching age-appropriate skills and tactics
- Modeling respect for referees, opponents, and families
- Encouraging effort, not just results
🧑🏫 Coach Code of Conduct
All coaches and assistants must follow these standards:
- Communicate clearly with players and families
- Prioritize safety, sportsmanship, and skill development
- Never yell, belittle, or embarrass players — mistakes are part of learning
- Limit sideline coaching during games — let them play!
- Treat referees with respect — especially youth refs
- Follow all AYSO rules, policies, and match-day protocols
🧰 Practice & Game Expectations
- Practice: 1–2 sessions per week, age-appropriate length and intensity
- Games: Equal playing time for all players
- Equipment: Coaches must check field and gear for safety
- Player Ratings: Submit honest evaluations post-season to support balanced teams
🛡️ Safety & Risk Management
- No drop-offs: A parent/guardian must remain on-site
- Injury Protocol: Follow physician guidance before return to play
- Weather: Cancel or delay for lightning, extreme heat, or unsafe conditions
- Forms: Coaches must have access to player registration and medical release forms at all times
🚫 Zero Tolerance & Referee Abuse Policy
AYSO Region 158 enforces a Zero Tolerance Policy for misconduct toward referees, players, coaches, or spectators.
- No disputing calls, sarcasm, or intimidation
- Youth referees are protected — any abuse results in removal
- Referees may eject coaches/spectators without warning
- Post-game confrontations are treated as send-offs
All incidents are reported and tracked. Repeat offenders may be suspended.
🧒 Kids Zone Reminder
Coaches are expected to uphold the Kids Zone Pledge and help parents do the same:
- Players play, fans cheer, coaches coach
- No yelling, swearing, or sideline coaching
- Respect all volunteers — especially referees
- Keep it fun, friendly, and focused on the kids