If you would like to coach youth soccer, the following training courses are mandatory:
COACHING EDUCATION
RUTGERS S.A.F.E.T.Y. Class
As a very minimum requirement, ALL volunteer coaches must attend a RUTGERS S.A.F.E.T.Y Class. The class is 3-hours long and is conducted twice a year in Jefferson. Registration is through Community Pass. There is no charge for Jefferson residents. Alternatively you may attend a class in another town. Upon completion and acceptance as a JYS Coach, JYS will reimburse upto $35.00 (with submission of receipt and certificate).
NOTE: This class does not provide specifics on coaching soccer. It satisfies NJ’s Little League Law requirement.
NJYS “Y” Course
Recreation Coaches may choose to complete the NJYS “Y” Course. It is strongly recommended for first time soccer coaches, but not mandatory. The class comprises a 1-hour classroom lesson, and a 2-hour field demo. More information can be found here.
NJYS State Certificate (Formerly “F” Course)
This is a requirement for ALL Travel Soccer coaches. This course consists of a 3-hour classroom lesson, and a 3-hour field demo. The certificate must be completed prior to any participation with a JYS travel team. JYS will reimburse upto $45.00 for the completion of this course, if you are accepted as a JYS Coach. More information can be found here.
CONCUSSION EDUCATION
Heads Up to Youth Sports: Online Concussion Training
All volunteer coaches MUST complete the Online Heads Up to Youth Sports certificate. The online training is free and takes approximately 45-60 minutes to complete. Upon completion you should download your certificate and link it to your coach registration. More information can be found here.
SAFESPORT TRAINING
U.S. Center for SafeSport Training
This is a requirement for ALL coaches and any volunteers who will spend time with JYS players. While there are several program options for awareness/prevention training of sexual abuse. NJ Youth Soccer supports the Safe Sport Act by advising persons identified under this policy to take the program provided by the U.S. Center for SafeSport. This training is entirely online, and you should allow 3 hours for completion. It may be completed in stages. It is an annual requirement and more information can be found here.
In addition to the requirements outlined above, all JYS coaches and volunteers will undergo an annual background check. You can view NJYS Background Check Policy for additional information. This is processed when you complete the Coach Registration sign up.