The 2012 NSCAA Convention has something for everyone, whether it’s learning the basics of coaching goalkeepers or high-level discussions of systems of play.  The five-day program is filled with numerous opportunities for youth, high school and college coaches as well as the everyday soccer fanatic to take part in.

Youth Coaches

Expand your knowledge by taking either the Youth Level II or Goalkeeping Level I courses and earn a diploma. On Thursday, Jan. 12, listen to representatives from Scott Gallagher Soccer Club in St. Louis describe how to develop a culture conducive to “Developing Players from Youth to Pro.” Later than day, take in the field session “Our Favorite Training Sessions – Fun Finishing Games” presented by NSCAA Academy Senior Staff member Hylton Dayes. Also, learn “The Importance of Technical Coaching” in a field session presented by Tom Byer, a recognized leader in the development of Japan’s grassroots soccer movement.

High School Coaches

Start the weekend off with “Building and Maintaining a High School Soccer Program” Roundtable discussion with two-time NSCAA National Coach of the Year Craig Ewing of St. Thomas Aquinas High School of Overland Park, Kan. Celebrate the achievements of colleagues NSCAA High School and Youth Coaches Awards Breakfast at 8 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 13. Later that day, at 1 p.m., learn how to evaluate your team during a match as NSCAA Academy Associate National Staff and Blue Valley Southwest High School Coach Jason Pendleton presents “Match Analysis and Scouting for High School Coaches.” Join the “Hot Topics in High School Soccer” discussion, featuring a panel of members of the NSCAA Board of Directors and other leaders in high school soccer at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14.

College Coaches

Join Simon Clements, Director of Exact Sports, as he leads a discussion on “Developmental Coaching: The Elite Coach’s View of Mental Training and Development” with panelists Anson Dorrance of North Carolina, Dr. David Masur of St. John’s, Dr. Jay Martin of Ohio Wesleyan and Janet Rayfield of Illinois at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12. The U-20 German Men’s National Team Coaches, Frank Wormuth, and Daniel Niedzkowski of the German Football Association will host a field session on “Technique in Tactical Training for Build-Up and Vertical Play” at 4 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 13, in Exhibit Hall D for coaches wanting to learn about coaching details for your team. Janet Judge of Sports Law Associates LLC will be discussing “Social Media for College Coaches” at 12:45 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14 to help coaches with the growing use of technology in their everyday coaching activities.

These are a mere sample of some of the educational sessions that coaches can attend at the Convention. Many more are available for coaches at each level.

Not sure what to attend? Customize your own schedule for the Convention here based on what level you are at and what interests you. Feel free to venture into any session at any level. Be sure to check the schedule as new clinicians, topics and special events continually are added.

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