What coaching qualifications does an OPDL team need?
Rule- Ontario
- Ontario Soccer
- OPDL
- Youth soccer
- U13-U17
- 2026
- Coaches
Minimum qualifications by role (OPDL Operational Rules, March 2026):
| Role | U13 | U14-U17 |
|---|---|---|
| Head coach | Valid Canada Soccer C Diploma/Licence plus Learn to Train theory (online modules) | Valid Canadian National B Diploma/Licence or a valid Youth Licence |
| Assistant coach | Grassroots Diploma plus Learn to Train theory (online modules) | Valid National C Diploma/Licence |
- The head coach must be a paid (full or part-time) coach with the Licence Holder.
- Goalkeeper coach: an Ontario Soccer Goalkeeper Coach Diploma or foreign equivalent, or an Ontario Soccer Goalkeeper Coach Certificate plus a valid National C Diploma/Licence.
- Athletic therapist: the Licence Holder must have a paid individual or organization, qualified and licensed (for example a physician, chiropractor, registered physiotherapist or certified athletic therapist), responsible for injury prevention and treatment.
- If a requirement is not met: a Coach Development Plan must be submitted to Ontario Soccer for approval. A coach on a plan in the previous season is not automatically renewed and must re-apply. Anyone without the required certification cannot be assigned without written approval and an Action Plan from Ontario Soccer.
- Bench cover: a team must have at least 2 qualified team officials on the bench. An assistant who does not meet the head coach standard for the age group cannot act as head coach for a match.
Source: OPDL Operational Rules, March 2026 (sections 30 and Appendix B).
Added 25 Oct 2026