AYSO has developed different programs to help coaches learn how to teach soccer to children at the different ages. The basic understanding of the AYSO program is taught through the following mandatory courses. There are four (4) main requirements - coaching skills, referee basics, safetyand a volunteer form, which vary at the different age levels.

• Everyone, regardless of division, must submit a Volunteer application  and a background check which needs to be renewed every 12 months.
• To protect our volunteers and our children, Safe Haven is a mandatory requirement for all Region 88 AYSO coaches, assistant coaches, and referees. You must take the Safe Haven course before you can coach or referee this coming fall.
• If you cannot attend the Region 88 courses, see the AYSOU site for additional courses.
• Besides the AYSO program, there are many different other opportunities for coaches to learn as much as they want about teaching soccer (see practice sessions for ideas and some good links, or just surf through the internet).
  

The following is required to be a 5U or 6U coach or assistant coach:

• 6U Coaching Training (online) and field training (classroom) [4 hours]*

Please note that all Region 88 head coaches and assistant coaches in the 7U/8U and older divisions must complete a Referee certification as listed below:

The following is required to be a 7U or 8U coach or assistant coach:

• 8U Coaching training (online) and field training (classroom) [4 hours]
• 8U Official Course (online) and field training (classroom) [4 hours] 

The following is required to be a 10U coach or assistant coach: 

• 10U Coaching Training (online) and field training (classroom) [4 hours]
• Regional Referee clinic (online) and field training (classroom) [8 hours]

The following is required to be a 12U coach or assistant coach:

• 12U Coaching Training (online) and field training (classroom) [8 hours]
• Regional Referee clinic (online) and field training (classroom) [8 hours]