Coaches’ Corner

All volunteer coaches are required to complete the clearances mandated by Pennsylvania law and governing soccer organizations.

Required Clearances

• Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance
• Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Clearance
• FBI Fingerprinting OR Volunteer Affidavit

Pennsylvania Residency Requirements

• If you have NOT lived in Pennsylvania continuously for the past 10 years, you must complete FBI fingerprinting.

• Fingerprint Registration Information:

• Register through IDENTOGO using Service Code 1KG6XN.

• Fingerprinting Access: https://uenroll.identogo.com

Please Note: Fingerprint results may take up to 30 days to process.

• If you HAVE lived in Pennsylvania continuously for the past 10 years:

• You may complete the required Volunteer Affidavit instead of fingerprinting.
• All clearances must be completed before participating in coaching activities.

All coaches must have an active coach account in GotSport.

Existing Coach Profile

If you already have a coach profile in GotSport, proceed to Step 3.

New Coach Profile

If you do not currently have a coach profile, contact the appropriate program:

• Intramural & Recreation Program
  OutdoorIM@valleysoccerclub.org
• Travel Program
  Travel@valleysoccerclub.org

Once approved, a Role Request will be sent to you via email. Accept the request to activate your coaching account.

Important

After your account is activated:

• Verify your birthdate is entered correctly.
• Upload all required clearances.
• Complete annual trainings through GotSport.

An incorrect birthdate may prevent access to required compliance trainings.

All coaches must complete the following annual requirements through GotSport:

Required Annual Trainings

• SafeSport Training (approximately 1 hour)
• Concussion Awareness Training (approximately 1 hour)

Required Annual Documents

• EPYSA Risk Management Agreement

Valley Soccer Club provides an end-of-season stipend as a thank you for the time and dedication of our volunteer coaches.

To be eligible for a stipend, coaches must:

• Complete all required clearances and trainings
• Upload required documentation to GotSport
• Remain in good standing with the club
• Return all club-issued equipment (intramural/recreational only)

Stipend Amounts

The Intramural and Recreation Program is designed to foster learning, skill development, confidence, and a lifelong love of soccer in a fun and supportive environment.

Seasonal Responsibilities

Coaches are expected to:

• Hold 1–2 practices per week, based on field availability.
• Coach 1–2 games per week as scheduled.
• Attend two mandatory online coaches meetings each season.
• Communicate with parents and club leadership in a timely and professional manner.

Player Development

Coaches are expected to:

• Teach age-appropriate soccer skills and fundamentals.
• Create a positive, inclusive, and encouraging environment.
• Demonstrate and promote good sportsmanship.
• Prioritize player safety at all times.
• Encourage participation and enjoyment of the game.

Club Support

Coaches are expected to:

• Share club communications with team families.
• Promote club fundraising efforts and events.
• Encourage participation in club activities.
• Represent Valley Soccer Club in a positive and professional manner.

Purpose

The mission of Valley Soccer Club is to provide a positive, challenging, and enjoyable soccer experience that promotes player development, teamwork, sportsmanship, and a lifelong love of the game.  Travel coaches play a critical role in achieving this mission by creating an environment focused on development, preparation, accountability, and enjoyment.

Seasonal Travel Coaching Commitments

Fall Season (July–November)

Coaches are expected to:

• Conduct two or more organized training sessions per week, according to field availability.
• Coach all scheduled league games and tournaments.
• Attend coaches meetings and club functions as requested.
• Communicate schedules promptly to families.
• Prepare organized, age-appropriate training sessions.

Winter Season (January–March)

Coaches are expected to:

• Conduct one or more organized training session per week, according to field availability.
• Coach indoor leagues, futsal matches, and tournaments.
• Maintain player development during the offseason.

Spring Season (March–June)

Coaches are expected to:

• Conduct two or more organized training sessions per week, according to field availability.
• Coach league games, tournaments, and club events.
• Continue preparing players for long-term development.

Player Development Philosophy

Travel coaches are expected to:

• Prioritize long-term player development over short-term results.
• Teach age-appropriate technical and tactical concepts.
• Maximize player touches and active involvement.
• Encourage creativity, confidence, and decision-making.
• Provide positive and constructive feedback.
• Promote growth mindset principles.
• Model sportsmanship, respect, and integrity.

Practice Expectations

Travel coaches should:

• Arrive early and prepared.
• Have a training plan for every session.
• Conduct organized and engaging practices.
• Maintain a safe training environment.
• Ensure maximum participation.
• End sessions on time.

Game Day Expectations

Travel coaches should:

• Arrive early and prepare players appropriately.
• Demonstrate professionalism toward players, officials, opponents, and families.
• Encourage players positively throughout the match.
• Support equitable playing opportunities consistent with club philosophy and league requirements.
• Emphasize development over winning.
• Communicate effectively before, during, and after games.

Communication Expectations

Travel coaches are expected to:

• Communicate respectfully and professionally.
• Respond to parent communications within a reasonable timeframe.
• Provide timely updates regarding scheduling changes.
• Address concerns professionally.
• Follow club communication procedures.

Professional Conduct

Travel coaches are expected to:

• Represent Valley Soccer Club professionally.
• Demonstrate honesty, integrity, and sportsmanship.
• Respect players, parents, officials, opponents, and spectators.
• Refrain from inappropriate language or behavior and uphold the same expectation for parents and players.
• Follow all club, league, EPYSA, and governing body regulations.
• Wear Valley Soccer Club apparel whenever possible.

Player Welfare & Safety

Travel coaches are expected to:

• Place player safety above all other considerations.
• Maintain proper supervision during team activities.
• Promote hydration, injury prevention, and safe training habits.
• Report injuries and concerns to Club leadership promptly.
• Maintain all required certifications and clearances.

Team Culture

Every Travel Coach is expected to foster:

• Respect
• Accountability
• Teamwork
• Positive Attitudes
• Inclusion
• Hard Work
• Commitment
• Fun

Every player should feel valued and respected regardless of ability, experience, or playing time.

Administrative Responsibilities

Travel coaches are expected to:

• Maintain accurate rosters and player information.
• Attend required coaching meetings and education opportunities.
• Submit league and tournament paperwork on time.
• Coordinate scheduling and field needs with club leadership.
• Report disciplinary concerns to appropriate club officials.