What coaching qualifications and screening do I need, and what is the Rule of Two?

Under the Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards, the minimum for a Grassroots Stream coach is:

1. Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screen
2. NCCP Make Ethical Decisions module and/or online evaluation
3. Respect in Sport Activity Leader program
4. NCCP Making Headway (concussion) module
5. NCCP Emergency Action Planning module
6. NCCP Rule of Two module

At the Learn to Train stage (U12-U13) coaches also complete an online theory module and a practical workshop. The Community Stream minimum is a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screen, the Canada Soccer Coaching Soccer in Canada online module and Respect in Sport Activity Leader. Member associations may increase these requirements.

The Canada Soccer Guide to Safety describes the Rule of Two as always having two screened and NCCP trained or certified coaches with an athlete, especially a minor, in a potentially vulnerable situation. One-on-one interaction must take place within earshot and view of the second coach, except in medical emergencies.

Sources: Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards (https://canadasoccer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2026-CS-GrassrootsStandards-EN_final91.pdf); Guide to Safety (https://canadasoccer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/CanadaSoccer_Guide_Safety_EN.pdf)