Coaching Requirements & Certification

Brookline Youth Soccer Association (BYSA) is dedicated to providing the best possible experience for our players. To ensure high-quality instruction and player safety, all coaches must complete mandatory clearances and coaching certifications.

Step 1: Coaching Education & Licenses

We require all coaches to complete the U.S. Soccer Grassroots certification.

Are you a first-time coach?

U.S. Soccer requires a brief introductory module before you can register for specific licenses.

• Complete the Intro to Grassroots: This is a short, free, online module explaining the "Play-Practice-Play" philosophy.

• [START THE INTRO TO GRASSROOTS COURSE HERE]

• Note: Once completed, the system will unlock the 11v11 registration link below.

Register for the 11v11 Grassroots Course

If you have completed the intro or are an existing coach, use the official Brookline portal:

• [CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE 11v11 COURSE]

💡 Tip: If you have coached before, use your existing U.S. Soccer Learning Center login so your licenses are tracked correctly.

Step 2: Mandatory Safety Clearances

To comply with PA West Soccer and Pennsylvania State Law, all Head and Assistant Coaches must submit the following background checks.

1. Standard Clearances (Required for All)

• PA Child Abuse History Clearance: (Free for volunteers) — [Apply Online via PA Dept of Human Services]

• PA State Police Criminal Record Check: (Free for volunteers) — [Apply Online via PATCH]

2. Residency Requirements (Choose One)

• If you HAVE lived in PA for 10+ years: Download, sign, and notarize the [Notarized Affidavit for Volunteer Exemption].

• If you HAVE NOT lived in PA for 10 years: You must complete a fingerprint-based federal background check. [Register for Fingerprinting].

3. How to Submit

Once you receive your clearances, you must upload them to the PA West Online Risk Management Portal. We cannot allow any coach on the field until these are verified by the league.

• [UPLOAD MY CLEARANCES HERE]

Step 3: Upcoming In-Person Courses

These hands-on sessions are held at Moore Park (Brookline).

• Sunday, February 22nd | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

• Sunday, March 1st | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

What to Bring:

• Comfortable athletic clothing and shoes/cleats.

• A water bottle.

• A positive attitude!

Support & Questions

Having trouble with the U.S. Soccer website or have questions about clearances? Reach out to the BYSA Board at BYSASoccer15226@gmail.com.

Thank you for volunteering!