Wisconsin Soccer Central

The National Soccer Coaches Association of America is holding two upcoming coaching courses in Fond du Lac.

The Youth Level II Diploma course, a class intended for those new to coaching young players, is scheduled for April 22. The High School Coaches Diploma course, which is focused on issues and responsibilities unique to prep soccer, is set for July 27 to 29.

Both courses will be held at Fond du Lac High School. Here's a brief look at the courses:

Youth Level II Diploma

This class, previously known as the State Diploma, is a five-hour course for people new to coaching 5- to 10-year-olds.

Special emphasis is placed on understanding the physiological and psychological differences when coaching children, and the curriculum focuses on organization of a practice session, using small-sided games to enhance knowledge and fun, understanding the Laws of the Game and prevention of injuries.

There is no testing for the course, and candidates must be at least 14 years old to apply. Those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult during the class.

Cost: $45, includes first-time, one-year membership to the NSCAA. Registration information

High School Coaches Diploma

This 21-hour course offers prep boys and girls coaches guidance in dealing with managerial issues, along with practice and game strategies.

The curriculum includes:

• Developing a coaching philosophy
• Team management, including preseason training, team building, game-day preparation, out-of-season play, ODP/club relationships, team rules, choosing team captains, parental issues
• Methods of coaching high school players
• Risk management for high school coaches
• College recruiting issues
• Helping high school players move to the next level
• Match analysis

It is recommended coaches attending this course have an NSCAA Advanced Regional Diploma, but it is not required. There is no testing for the course.

Cost: $300. Registration information