Question Number: 26987

League Specific 11/6/2012

RE: Under 13

Shane Spangler of Paradise, Pa USA asks...

Are Referees supposed to check coaches certifications as well as team registrations before each game?

What is the minimum coaching certification required to coach U-12 ?

Does a certified coach have to be in attendance to be able to play the game?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

That may be a requirement of your league. One of the leagues I work for requires referees to check the coach 'Risk Management' certificate.

If the league rules require you to check certification, they should tell you what the minimum requirements for coaches are.

Due to child protection issues, many leagues require that a certified adult be present at youth games. We have had games that cannot start because the only adult with Risk Management is late. Or if the only certified official is dismissed, the game must be abandoned.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Shane
That is a matter for the competition organisers and competition rules. If the referee is instructed by the league to do so then that requirement must be adhered to.
As Referee Voshol states the matter is a Child protection issue and good CP practise should be followed in all Underage games.

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

The local leagues affiliated with US Soccer in my area require that the coaches carry a card showing risk management (background check) and a USSF Coach certification (with the level of the license/certificate based on the age/type of play). Referees here do check coaches' cards. But, each league and many states establish their own rules and procedures.

Moreover, AYSO has different requirements for its volunteers who coach.