Overview

The following information provides the basic features of our Coaching Education Program.  Individuals with questions about coaching education are encouraged to email Devin Woodard, ODP & Coaching Education Administrator 615-590-2200 x200.

State Funded Coaching Instruction  

D, E, and Youth Module Courses

Tennessee Soccer provides a number of free D courses and free E courses statewide per year (September 1st-August 31st).  We also provide free Youth Modules for clubs.

• If you are a coach NOT registered with Tennessee (in or out of state), the fees are:

            E Course - $35.00

            D Course - $70.00            

• A minimum number of 18 candidates are required for the D or E License. 
• The free D and E courses shall be held in an area where the majority of coaches exist; site will be decided by Tennessee Soccer.  
• Courses are typically held during in the summer & winter months. 
• Please contact State Director of Coaching regarding a Youth Module for your club/association. 

In addition to the free courses, clubs may apply to host additional courses on an as needed basis.  Additional D, and E courses, beyond the free ones, will have fees involved.  Application to host a course beyond the free ones should be made 60 days in advance of the requested date.  For further information, contact Devin Woodard. 

Curriculum Offered

The State Coaching School offers graduated levels of instructional courses.  This progressive format enables coaches to identify their level and choose courses that meet their specific needs.  For detailed information, please see links, titled, 'Course Descriptions' and 'Course Materials.'

Youth Module

This course is designed for the parent/coach working with the U6, U8, and U10 age groups.  The Youth Module is a 4-hour course that combines both classroom and field sessions, emphasizing age appropriate teaching and activities.  No licensing prerequisite and no testing required.  A minimum age of 14 is needed to attend this course.

E License

This course is designed to focus on the development of the player, both individually, and as part of the team.  The E is an 18-hour intermediate course that emphasizes technical development and focuses on the U9-U12 age group.  No licensing prerequisite; however, there are pre-course assignments and a practical field exam.  A minimum age of 17 is needed to attend this course.  

D License

This is the most advanced state level course offered by Tennessee Soccer.  This license involves 38-hours of instructing and testing.  The emphasis is on players U12 and above, preparing coaches by expanding their knowledge and understanding of the technical and tactical demands of the game and the developmental process necessary for players of these ages.  There is oral, written, and field-testing in the D License.  Applicants must be 18 years of age and have held the E Certificate (Mandating the E Certificate) or equivalent (i.e. NSCAA Advanced Regional Diploma) for six months. 

National Courses

For information pertaining to US Soccer's National A, B, and C Licenses, please go to www.ussoccer.com.  For information on the National Youth License, please go to www.usyouthsoccer.org. Tennessee Soccer does hold state hosted National C Courses and National Youth Courses, on US Soccer's approval.

National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) 

Based in Kansas City, Kan., the NSCAA is the largest coaches' organization in the United States. Since its founding in 1941, it has grown to include more than 26,000 members who coach both genders at all levels of the sport.  For more information on the NSCAA and courses taught, please go to www.nscaa.com.  

Special Topics

Tennessee Soccer offers special topic courses for clubs/teams to fit their specific needs.  Contact the State Director of Coaching for Details.    

District Coaching Coordinators

District Coordinators are selected to assist the State Director of Coaching in the programming associated with Coaching Education. Please contact the State of Director of Coaching or the coordinator in your district with any questions: 

Central District
Bill Vice

Eastern District
Josh Gray

Middle District
Andy Poklad

Northeast District
Declan Jogi 

Southeast District
Curtis Blair

Western District
Chris Leonardi