SAN JOSE, Calif. – To diversify the grassroots youth soccer ecosystem in the Bay Area, the San Jose Earthquakes, in partnership with the Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA), are launching the Quakes Community Coaching Course. This new program is designed to address the barrier to licensing that many coaches experience. The Quakes believe in an equitable, accessible, and positive youth sports space and youth soccer ecosystem. However, due to the barriers that exist in under-resourced communities, coaches may face adverse conditions and circumstances that make it more challenging to become licensed coaches and advance in the coaching profession.
To advance this belief, the Quakes are investing in a pilot program that is designed to build a diverse pipeline of youth soccer coaches locally. Members of the initial cohort of coaches will build their technical coaching skills and their sports-based youth development toolbox.
In partnership with the PCA, the Earthquakes will be recruiting an initial cohort of 15 coaches from underrepresented groups throughout the Bay Area to participate in this pilot program. Participants will begin the six-month pilot course on April 1. They will work closely with coaches in the Quakes Academy, Academy Director of Operations Alex Saunders, and Club Ambassador and former midfielder Shea Salinas to receive training in areas like creating a positive culture and environment, developing a season plan, building a purposeful progressive training session, and more. The program will be free to participants, and they will also receive other benefits like complimentary tickets to Earthquakes and Quakes II matches. After receiving their Quakes Community Coaching Course diploma, the Quakes will then pay for the participants’ next coaching license.
To apply for the Quakes Community Coaching Course, click here.
Benefits
- The course is free
- The Quakes will pay for a subsequent license
- Free team-signed Earthquakes jersey
- Free Earthquakes and Quakes II tickets to select games
- One coach will be selected by staff to attend an away match with the first team
Applicant Criteria
- All genders welcome
- Underrepresented community members
- Soccer experience required
- One year of coaching experience or strong coaching aspirations
- Willing to commute to PayPal Park once a month
For any questions about the program or to recommend a candidate, please email communityrelations@sjearthquakes.com.
