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We believe strongly that great players need great coaches. To this end, we also believe that we have a responsibility to carry some of the burden of this education. We offer as part of every team's registration an NSCAA State Coaching Diploma course. This course is a perfect starting point for any new coach. Visit www.nscaa.com for more information on the National Soccer Coaches Association of America's progression of education for coaches.

NSCAA State Diploma
The State Diploma is a five-hour course directed toward the person newly involved in coaching soccer. It is designed to help coaches working with players in the 5- to 10-year age range. Special emphasis is placed on understanding the physiological and psychological differences of coaching children.

The course is designed to emphasize that the game itself essentially is the teacher and the focus of the coach at this level clearly is as facilitator. The curriculum focuses on the organization of a practice session, using small-sided games to enhance knowledge and fun, basic understanding of the Laws of the Game and information about the care and prevention of injuries. There is no testing in the State Diploma. All candidates must be at least 14 years of age at the time of application. If a candidate is under 18 years of age, an adult must accompany him or her for the duration of the course.