USSF Coaching Courses

DCSSL’s recreational teams are coached primarily by parent volunteers.  Most become involved in the game by coaching their youngsters’ teams.  Coaches run a weekly practice and coach the weekend games. A number of DCSSL teams also have professional trainers.

DCSSL's rules state that all new coaches and trainers at the younger age groups must obtain the appropriate introductory USSF ’F’ coaching certificate (6 hours) within 12 months (mandatory for U5 through U9 teams).  DCSSL also offers the USSF official ’E’ coaching certificate (18 hours, mandatory for U10 teams and above) as well as the official ’D’ certificate (36 hours) for more advanced coaching.  All courses are offered locally.  Click here for more information.

Referee Courses

DCSSL trains its own junior referees for games at the youngest levels.  Generally, the new junior referee course is held in late January or early February for the Spring season, and in late July or August for the Fall season.  Young referees are assigned appropriate age-level games.  DCSSL also encourages parents, coaches and players (14 years of age or older) to become FlFA-certified referees.  The League offers annual certification for those interested in officiating as well as re-certification courses for current referees.  These courses generally take place in December and January.  For additional information, please click here.