Where to Start?

We'll continue to add more content to these pages, but please review our Positive Coaching page. It's a critical part of AYSO that all coach volunteers must follow.

Managing Your Practices

• Set aside enough time beforehand to prepare a practice plan covering a full 60 minute practice session.
• Review your coach manual, especially the Objectives of the Game, Principles of Play, and Player Techniques & Skills before your first practice.
• U-7 and above coaches – conducting practices before your first game is essential.
• There are no reserved fields for practices. Basically any field that is open is available for practices. Find a school or any field convenient to you and your team, and you can set up and practice.
• A minimum of two adults are required to be at practices, and at least one of the same gender as the players. If you're lacking bodies for supervision, ask the other parents to take turns attending practices.
• Remind parents and players of equipment requirements, especially about shinguards (and having them completely over socks), no jewelry, and the importance of bringing their ball and water bottle to practices, along with their uniform on game days.
• Regularly encourage parents and siblings of players to become referees. We can always use more (especially youth referees).
• Keep your coaching positive, instructional, and encouraging during practices.