Next Wave Project

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It’s no secret that women have long been an underutilized source of youth sport coaches. Female coaches are particularly underrepresented in “more masculine” sports, like soccer, with some estimates reporting that women make up less than 14% of youth soccer coaches. Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club is excited to launch the Next Wave Program, an eight-month coach development program designed specifically for – and by – women, to start closing that gap. 

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What? Next Wave 2022 | Empowering Female Coaches and Players in Colorado

When? April – November 2022 | The deadline to register is April 11th, 2022.

Who? Women with a passion for soccer, ages 16 and up.

Contact: [email protected]!

Whether you are a current high school or collegiate soccer player looking to enter the world of coaching, or an established female coach seeking further professional development, Next Wave has been created with you in mind. Alongside a community of female coaches, Next Wave members will have access to a number of development opportunities, including:

 

  • Monthly In-Person Workshops: Successful coaching is about more than just knowledge of the Xs and Os. Once a month, NWP coaches will attend half-day, interactive workshops to learn from and work with experienced CRYSC coaches and staff. Workshops will not only address the tactical and technical sides of the game, but also cover topics like crafting a coaching philosophy, effectively motivating players, engaging with parents, and building psychologically safe soccer environments. 
  • 1:1 Mentorship: Mentorship is the backbone of Next Wave. At the first NWP workshop, each coach will be paired with a current Rapids coach who will mentor them throughout the eight-month program. NWP coaches will be invited to work with their coaches in designing and delivering weekly training sessions for their teams and assist on the sideline during games and tournaments. 
  • USC Licensure: By the end of the program, all Next Wave coaches will have acquired 7v7/9v9 licensure through United Soccer Coaches at no charge.