What do I need to become an AYSO Coach/Assistant?
Public Law 115–126 TITLE I—PROTECTING YOUNG VICTIMS FROM SEXUAL ABUSE To prevent the sexual abuse of minors and amateur athletes by requiring the prompt reporting of sexual abuse to law enforcement authorities, and for other purposes. |
ALABAMA STATE COACH SAFELY (ALABAMA CODE 2018-496) This Alabama only law requires coaches of youth athletes of age 14 and under take annual training covering specific health and safety subjects. Region 498 has determined that the courses below fulfill the Coach Safely requirements, and coaches are to take all courses annually. |
1. AYSO Registration
All coaches and assistant coaches must complete online registration as a volunteer for each season. When registering, you must choose the division (i.e. - 5U, 6U, 7U, etc.) you want to coach. For volunteer registration instructions, CLICK HERE.
2. Safe Haven
All AYSO volunteers are required to complete Safe Haven online training at AYSOU. You will only need to complete this training one time, unless the provisions of AL COACH SAFELY apply.
3. CDC Concussion Training
According to the State of Alabama, coaches/assistant coaches must complete the online CDC Concussion Awareness training in AYSOU. This online training must be completed every 12 months.
4. Age Appropriate Training
All coaches/assistant coaches must be certified in the age appropriate division for which they volunteered. Coaches/Assistant Coaches can sign up for age appropriate courses in AYSOU for your own region or any other region in the local area.

NOTE: The coach training program has two elements -- 1) Theory; and 2) On-Field. You must complete both elements to be certified for the age appropriate training you signed up for. The theory element may be delivered online and/or in-person classroom.
5. Sudden Cardiac Arrest Training
This course is online and is required under the AL COACH SAFELY provisions.
We recommend that you complete the Safe Haven and CDC Concussion Awareness online training before attending in-person courses. When attending in-person courses, please wear proper soccer attire (shin guards, cleats), sun protection (sun block, hat, sunglasses), and stay hydrated (water, Gatorade),.