Coaching

Being a Brooklyn AYSO Coach

Thank you for your interest in coaching with Brooklyn AYSO! Our program is built on the dedication of our volunteer coaches. Here is a general guide to our coaching philosophy, expectations, and rules.

Our Coaching Philosophy

In AYSO, Positive Coaching is a core philosophy. We believe that kids make the best players when they receive positive encouragement and good mentoring. Every AYSO coach is a volunteer and a vital part of the AYSO community, teaching key components of the beautiful game of soccer and ensuring that every child gets to play. Coaches are expected promote AYSO's Six Philosophies:

  • Everyone Plays®: Our program's goal is for kids to play soccer so we mandate that every player on every team must play at least 50 percent of every game. It's no fun to spend the game on the bench...and that's no way to learn soccer!

  • Balanced Teams: Each year we form new teams as evenly balanced as possible because it's more fun and a better learning experience when teams of similar ability play. It allows for each player to gain the experience of a wide variety of teammates of different skill levels

  • Open Registration: Our program is open to all children between 4 and 19 years of age who want to register and play soccer. Interest and enthusiasm are the only criteria for playing. There are no elimination try-outs and nobody gets cut

  • Positive Coaching: Encouragement of player effort provides for greater enjoyment for the players and leads to better-skilled and better-motivated players. A coach can be one of the most influential people in a child's life, so AYSO requires they create a positive experience for every boy and girl

  • Good Sportsmanship: We strive to create a positive environment based on mutual respect rather than a win-at-all-costs attitude, and our program is designed to instill good sportsmanship in every facet of AYSO

  • Player Development: We believe that all players should be able to develop their soccer skills and knowledge to the best of their abilities, both individually and as members of a team, in order to maximize their enjoyment of the game

Coach Expectations and Training

To ensure all coaches are prepared and aligned with our philosophy, we require you to attend a few key events:

  • Training and Mentorship: New coaches can be paired with experienced mentors to help them get started.

  • Coaching Clinics: We offer specific training clinics for different age groups (C6, C8, C10, C12, C14, High School) to hone your coaching style to the developmental needs of your team.

  • Advanced Courses: For those who wish to continue their coaching journey, we offer Intermediate and Advanced Coaching Courses.

Key Responsibilities

Coaches are responsible for the well-being and conduct of their team. Please follow these essential rules:

  • Game Management: Stay within 10 yards of the halfway line during games. Do not enter the field without the referee’s permission.

  • Field Protocol: Your team is responsible for helping take down the goals after the last game of the day.

  • Kids Zone: Follow and help others adhere to the Kids Zone Pledge

    1. Kids are #1!

    2. Fun – not winning – is everything

    3. Practice proper physical distancing

    4. Set a proper example of sportsmanship

    5. Players Play, Fans cheer and Coaches coach

    6. Respect the volunteer referees…we couldn’t do it without them!

    7. No yelling, swearing or abusive behavior

    8. No weapons, alcohol, tobacco or drugs

    9. Leave no trash behind

    10. Celebrate the player – win or lose

Communication and Rescheduling

  • Attendance: Coaches must take attendance at every game and submit it in InLeague

  • General Questions: For most questions, please contact your Division Coordinator.

  • Game Rescheduling: Game rescheduling requires a request submitted to the Regional Commissioner. Do not attempt to reschedule a game directly with the opposing coach.

  • Weather Cancellations: The Regional Commissioner will make the final decision on game cancellations due to bad weather. Coaches will be notified of any cancellations.

By adhering to these principles and rules, we can ensure a safe, fun, and educational soccer experience for every child. Thank you again for your commitment to our players and the Brooklyn AYSO community!