FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR COACHES
​
Why should I coach?
Not only is it a chance to spend quality time with your child -- it's fun! It's a great break from work, it makes you feel good, and it's a great way to give back to the community.
The rewards come in the form of helping kids have fun at a game or practice, and contributing to their individual skills and teamwork. There is also a great sense of accomplishment when you reach the end of a season, look back and see how far the team has come.
​
I don't know anything about soccer- can I still coach?
Yes! The DeSoto Soccer Association provides training and materials. Being a coach involves skills you probably already have and a little knowledge about the game. On our website we have several videos and website to show you a few drills and skills and as always, your age group coordinator will be happy to help out in any way they can!
​
What is the time commitment involved with coaching?
The time commitment for coaching is only a little more than the average parent. Most teams practice 2 days a week for about an hour. During the season you will mostly have games on Saturdays and possibly a few weeknight and Sunday games. Don't think you have enough time to commit? Consider being an assistant coach or maybe co-coaching with another parent on the team so that if one of you can't be there - the other one can.
How do I become a coach?
Click on the tab Before the Season Starts for more information.
If you have a child that is already on a team that has a coach, just let the coach know that you are interested in coaching and would like to help. Most of our coaches will be delighted to use you.
​
Do I have to have a child on the team to coach?
No. Anyone over the age of 18 can volunteer to be a coach in the DSA. Generally speaking, most coaches are the parents of a child on the team; however, DSA welcomes and encourages anyone who wants to volunteer to come out and coach.
​
How old do I have to be to coach?
You must be 18 years old or older to coach. We appreciate and encourage young people to participate in all aspects of soccer including coaching, an individual under 18 years of age may not be listed as the head coach on the official roster due to liability issues. They can certainly assist in training and even help make decisions regarding the team, but may not ever be left alone with players.
​
Where do I practice?
All coaches are required to fill out a practice request. You will be given half of a soccer field to practice on for two days a week.
​
Do I pay for my child to pay if I am a coach?
DSA will give head coaches 50% off on their registration. It's our way of saying thanks for volunteering.
​
Can we have paid trainers?
Yes, If your team chooses to pay an individual, company, or camp to train your players. You cannot, however, force anyone to participate in this.
​
Must every player play half of the game, or can it be averaged across the whole team?
Yes, every player must play at least 50 percent of every game. Additionally, in U4-U6 it is strongly recommended that no player play four (4) quarters before all players have played three (3) quarters.
The exceptions to this rule are if a player is injured, if a player chooses not to play or if a player is under disciplinary action.