POSITION SUMMARY

• The Competitive Soccer Coach is responsible for leading and developing youth competitive soccer teams within club and league structures sanctioned by Utah Youth Soccer (UYSA) and affiliated competitive leagues. The Coach’s primary focus is the technical, tactical, physical, and psychological development of competitive players, using age-appropriate training and adhering to the standards and policies of UYSA. Coaches serve as role models on and off the field, fostering a positive environment that emphasizes player growth, sportsmanship, and respect for the Laws of the Game.

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Team Coaching & Player Development

• Plan, organize, and conduct regular training sessions that build individual skills, tactical understanding, and team cohesion appropriate to the competitive level.

• Develop game strategies, systems of play, and positional responsibilities to prepare the team for competitive matches and tournaments.

• Evaluate individual player strengths and areas for improvement; provide constructive feedback to support development goals.

• Ensure players understand and apply the Laws of the Game in both training and competition.

Competition & Match Day Leadership

• Lead the team during league matches, tournaments, and sanctioned competitive events while promoting a culture of effort, resilience, and respect.

• Prepare players mentally and physically for competition and adjust tactics as needed during matches.

• Foster a culture of respect toward opponents, match officials, and spectators as outlined by UYSA coaching ethics.

Safety, Compliance & Standards

• Prioritize player safety above all, including enforcing safe practices and properly responding to injuries per established protocols.

• Ensure compliance with UYSA and club policies, including licensure requirements, background checks, and coaching education standards.

• Maintain certifications where required (e.g., SafeSport, concussion awareness, first aid/CPR) and current UYSA coaching credentials.

Communication & Administration

• Maintain open, clear, and professional communication with players, families, club staff, and league officials about schedules, expectations, and player progress.

• Complete necessary administrative duties such as attendance records, player evaluations, match reports, and any club-assigned documentation.

• Collaborate with technical directors, other coaching staff, and club leadership to align training with club objectives and long-term player development pathways.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

Essential Qualifications

• A strong understanding of soccer fundamentals with experience in competitive coaching and/or playing at an advanced youth, high school, collegiate, or club level.

• Demonstrated ability to design and deliver structured training sessions with clear developmental outcomes.

• Excellent communication, leadership, and motivational skills suited for working with competitive youth athletes.

• Ability to adapt coaching methods to different age groups and competitive standards.

• Current or willingness to obtain required coach education and safety credentials per UYSA and club policies (e.g., Grassroots License minimum).

Preferred Qualifications

• U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) coaching license (D or higher) or equivalent coaching certification.

• Experience coaching teams in sanctioned competitive leagues and state-level competitions.

• Familiarity with long-term athlete development principles and contemporary coaching methodologies.

Expectations & Professional Conduct

• Uphold the UYSA Coaching Code of Ethics at all times, ensuring the safety, welfare, and equitable treatment of players as the first priority over results.

• Model and teach respect, sportsmanship, and integrity in all interactions.

• Commit to ongoing professional growth through continuing coach education and club development programs.

• Foster a team culture that encourages accountability, teamwork, and personal responsibility.

SCHEDULE

• Seasonal position aligned with league practices and game schedules. 

  • Practices – 1-4 hours per week
  • Games – varies by season and level of play

• Typical commitments include weekday evening practices and weekend games; additional meetings or events may be required