New Coach Guide
Get Started
We know coaching can feel like a lot at first. This page walks you through everything step by step so you're confident before you step on the field.
✅ New Coach Checklist
Complete every item below before your first training session with players. See the Training page for full details on each step.
1
Complete Track 1 — Mandatory Compliance
Safe Haven/SafeSport, Concussion Awareness, Cardiac Arrest, and Background Check. All accessed through AYSOU — sign in to ayso206.org and select AYSOU from the left menu.
⚠️ Assistant coaches too. Every assistant coach must be registered with AYSO and complete all four compliance modules before stepping on the field. Direct questions to Mike Gonzales (CVPA).
2
Complete Track 2 — Coach Certification online module
Complete the AYSOU coaching module for your age group (6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, or 14U) before attending the in-person session at Dove Mountain CSTEM.
3
Attend in-person certification at Dove Mountain CSTEM
Aug 22 or Aug 29 · 6U & 8U: 9:30am–12:00pm · 10U, 12U & 14U: 1:00–4:30pm. Complete your online module first.
4
Contact your parents
Introduce yourself, confirm your roster, and schedule your first team meeting. Use the sample parent welcome letter on the Resources page.
5
Set up GameChanger
Your free team communication hub for schedules, messaging, and reminders. GameChanger.com
6
Sign up for your training field
Selection order: (1) Board members, (2) Multi-team coaches, (3) By division and number. Sign with your last name and division in pencil — e.g. "Smith 10UG". Contact Kathy McCarthy for details.
7
Collect signed medical release forms
These will be emailed to you early in the season. Required at every practice and game. See the Safety page.
8
Get a first aid kit
Required at every training session and game. Check and restock before each session.
👥 Running Your First Team Meeting
Hold this before or right after your first training session. It sets the tone for the entire season.
A
Introduce yourself
Share a little about yourself — why you're coaching, your soccer background (or lack of it!), and your goals for the season. Keep it warm and brief — 2–3 minutes.
B
Set expectations early
Cover playing time — all players should play 75% of each game if at all possible, with the aim of equal time across the roster. The minimum floor is half a game, but our standard is higher. Also cover position rotation, the 24-hour rule for concerns, positive sideline behavior, and the no-pets policy.
C
Share the season calendar
Training days, times, and location · Game dates via GameChanger · Key deadlines · Weather cancellation process.
D
Recruit helpers
Ask for an Assistant Coach, a Team Parent, and a Sponsor contact. Most parents are willing if asked directly with a specific role.
E
Distribute equipment
Hand out soccer balls — ask players to mark with name and phone number. Hold uniforms until you've confirmed roster accuracy with the registrar.
📏 Training Session Lengths by Division
6U & 8U
1 session per week
Maximum 1 hour
10U
2 sessions per week
Maximum 1 hour
12U+
2 sessions per week
Maximum 1.5 hours
🌡️ Heat & Weather
🌡
Heat Policy
Download the Zelus WBGT app (free). Check it before every session. Heat safety is your call as coach. Water breaks every 15–20 minutes in high heat.
🌧
Rain & Field Cancellations
John or Kathy will text you AND it will be posted at ayso206.org. For urgent field changes, text Zeno Pfau: (520) 276-3305.
💬 Join the Coaches WhatsApp Group
Our coaches WhatsApp group is one of the most valuable resources we have. Coaches share ideas, ask questions, pass on updates, and support each other through the season. New and returning coaches alike find it invaluable.
To join: Send a text message to John Parkin at (801) 390-7735 and he'll add you to the group.