Goal Hounds

Comprehensive Training for Goal Hounds Coaches

Safety, Certification, and Excellence


At Goal Hounds, we are committed to ensuring that all of our coaches meet the highest standards of training and safety. To coach at Goal Hounds, every community coach must complete several essential steps.

First, they must undergo a current Criminal Record Check with a Vulnerable Sector screening, which needs to be renewed every two years.

Coaches also need to complete the Respect in Sport for Activity Leaders course, valid for five years, which can be conveniently done online through BC Soccer.

Coaching Certification

At minimum, all coaches must complete the appropriate Canada Soccer Grassroots coaching course based on the age group they are coaching.

Canada Soccer has launched an online learning management system to lower the barrier to access for grassroots volunteer, parent, and guardian coaches.

For the 2024 season, both BC Soccer and Canada soccer is offering these online courses for free, with in-person session dates released on The BC Soccer website.

  • U5 (Active Start): Online and in-person on April 9th

  • U7 & U9 (FUNdamentals): Online and in-person on April 9th.

  • U11 & U13 (Learn to Train): Online and in-person on April 10th. U15+ (Soccer for Life): Online and in-person on April 11th.

    Additionally, all coaches must be Safe Sport screened by registering as staff with Goal Hounds.
    • BC Soccer and Canada Soccer

    Experienced Coaches

    At Goal Hounds, we ensure that all of our coaches come with a solid foundation of both playing and coaching experience. Before joining our team, each coach must have a background in playing soccer at a competitive level and prior coaching experience.

    This requirement ensures that they have the practical knowledge and skills needed to effectively train and guide our young athletes.

    Lastly, don’t forget to sign up as a volunteer to select your division and have your volunteer hours counted. Our comprehensive training and certification process ensure that Goal Hounds coaches are well-prepared to guide and support our young athletes every step of the way.

    From Player to Leader: Exploring Youth Coaching and Refereeing

    As your child advances through the Goal Hounds program and masters the skills of soccer, they might be interested in taking on new challenges and responsibilities.

    Youth coaching and refereeing offer excellent opportunities for continued involvement in the sport.

    Local clubs provide training programs for both roles, allowing young athletes to stay engaged with soccer while earning money and developing leadership skills.

    Coaching and refereeing not only enhance their connection to the game but also offer valuable experiences that contribute to personal growth and community impact.
    We encourage players aged 12 and older who are interested in pursuing youth coaching or refereeing to explore the seasonal training programs offered by neighbouring clubs.

    If your child is interested in joining a Youth Training Program, please reach out to our office.

    These opportunities are a great next step in their soccer journey, providing a chance to stay actively involved in the sport while gaining valuable experience and skills.