CHICAGO (Dec. 20, 2017) – U.S. Soccer has announced eight (8) new grassroots level coaching courses to be introduced in early 2018. These courses will be focused on empowering coaches through experiential learning and a player-centered approach. The course options will relate directly to small-sided games and the respective age-groups outlined in the Player Development Initiatives.

The new Grassroots Licensing Courses will consist of four (4) in-person experiences and four (4) online experiences. Prospective coaches will have the option to engage in any of these new courses – in any sequence – after completing a free introductory module provided by U.S. Soccer.

“This new, a-la-carte approach is meant to empower grassroots coaches to access education – relevant to their needs and specific coaching environment – immediately through these new low barrier opportunities,” said Frank Tschan, Director of Coaching Administration.

In addition to the eight (8) new opportunities, the D course has also been updated in accordance with the revamped approach at the grassroots level. “Over the last 12-months, U.S. Soccer has worked with its members to organize, study and pilot these new opportunities. This has been an immense project initiated by the Federation and its importance cannot be understated. The game is founded at the grassroots level; these courses will help ensure fun, enjoyable and developmentally appropriate environments.”

Concurrently with the roll out of the new courses, the current F and E courses will transition out of the U.S. Soccer Coaching Pathway. These licenses will still be recognized by U.S. Soccer and both certifications remain relevant as a means to advance within the pathway. As demonstrated in the past, member organizations will be empowered to organize and host the in-person grassroots courses and the updated D course on behalf of U.S. Soccer. More specific information on the newly formatted grassroots courses, including format and scheduling, will be released in early 2018.

“To continue to improve the state of soccer in the United States, we must continue to improve the players in our country. This begins with our coaches and there is not a larger or more impactful group than our coaches at the grassroots level,” said Director of Coaching Education, Nico Romeijn. “These new introductory courses will provide a supportive approach to teaching and coaching players at 4v4, 7v7, 9v9 and 11v11. Whether you are the unfamiliar parent volunteer, the transitioning player or a veteran coach, you should be able to walk away from these courses with more knowledge and a better understanding of how to effectively develop your players.”