What coaching qualification do I need for a JDL team?
Rule- New South Wales
- Football NSW
- Junior Development Leagues
- Skill Acquisition Phase
- Under 9-Under 13
- 2026
- Coaches
The 2025 Football NSW JDL Parent Information lists these minimum and recommended qualifications for the Junior Development Leagues:
| Role | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Head of JDL | B Diploma | A Diploma |
| Head Coach | C Diploma | C/B Diploma + |
| Goalkeeper Coach | Foundation of GK | GK C Diploma |
| Assistant Coach | Foundation of Football | C Diploma |
The 2026 Football NSW Competitions Regulations (Minimum Coaching Qualifications article) say the minimum coaching qualifications for each league and grade are set out in a separate Minimum Coaching Qualifications document, which also covers coach registration and fines for a breach. The 2026 Club Standards and Benchmarking Framework requires all JDL coaches to be registered on PlayFootball, and the club to appoint a Technical Director.
Sources: Football NSW JDL Parent Information, March 2025 (section 8); Football NSW Competitions Regulations 2026; Club Standards and Benchmarking Framework 2026.
Updated 24 Oct 2026