As of May 1, 2023, all coaches will be required to obtain a minimum standards of coach education as stipulated by the Canada Soccer Association (CSA). These mandatory online courses (and practical workshop) are part of the Soccer Quality Standards (SQS) framework that all clubs must adhere to in order to be licensed within the Alberta Soccer Association (ASA).
The course requirements differ for coaches working with different age groups in-line with the Long Term Player Development (LTPD) framework. The first requirement is to register with the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) here. Then you will choose the age range courses.
Community Stream Active Start (U5)
- or -
FUNdamentals (U7 & U9)
Competitive Stream Learn2Train (U11)
- or -
Soccer4Life (U13+)
Our new updated 2024 VSA Coaches SQS Guide provides a step-by-step overview of all required courses and where to access them. Note that managers of any age group only require a Respect In Sport - Activity Leaders certificate. All courses are online except the on-field practical.
On-Field Practical
On-field practical sessions are scheduled by the district or association and run by a qualified ASA learning facilitator.
Coaches must have completed the online theory portion of the course in order to register/attend the on-field practical session.
Active Start | U4 - U6 | 2 hour session |
FUNdamentals | U6 - U8 | 2 hour session |
Learn2Train | U8 - U11 | 3 hour session |
Soccer4Life | U13 and above | 3 hour session |
Information on upcoming practical training is added here when applicable.
If you have questions about the SQS, please contact VSA President Gordon Barrett at 587-217-1995 for a prompt response.
VSA reimburse all coaches and managers for all course fees incurred with NCCP number and Respect in Sport (RiS) Activity Leader certificate number upon completion. These should be emailed to vermsoccer.treasurer@gmail.com with cc to VSA registrar vsa.reg.agm@gmail.com.
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