Kootenay South Youth Soccer call out for coaches and volunteers
Published 12:00 pm Monday, March 16, 2026
The Kootenay South Youth Soccer Association (KSYSA) is preparing for a new season and on the lookout for volunteers and coaches for their recreational and development programs.
“Our organization would not run without its volunteers,” said Melissa Gresley-Jones, the KSYSA administrator. “We have volunteers who oversee the association and its program, budget, strategic plan, some who are on committees, and the remainder who are on field.”
The number of coaches needed varies depending on the age of players and the program, but there is some certification that is required for all.
“Coaching is a very fulfilling way to mentor young people and connect with your community. With new standards laid out by Canada Soccer, all coaches are required to complete a certification program designed for the age of the players they are coaching.”
This program is provided through Canada Soccer and involves two parts – the online theory component and the on-field practical component. The good news is KSYSA covers all costs associated with the coaching process.
The number of coaches needed varies from ratios of 1:4 to 1:14 depending on the age. The courses target the different age groups and include Active Start for coaching players age 4-6, Fundamentals for coaching ages 6-9, Learn to Train ages 9-12 and Soccer for Life age-13 and over.
“Usually we try to have two adults per team, but often we need more due to family schedules, shift work schedules etc. “
All on field volunteers need a criminal record check and are asked to complete the online training programs: Respect in Sport and Soccer in Canada.
If interested, volunteers looking to register for a coaching position with KSYSA can go to ksysa.ca/coaching/ .
KSYSA asks interested coaches to complete the online training as soon as possible, as the on-field Practical Workshop portion of the course will be held on Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11 at Pople Park in Trail.
Not ready for a coaching position, the KYSYSA is always in need of volunteers for positions on the board of directors, committees (recreation soccer, development soccer, infrastructure, referee, finance), as well as special event volunteers, field painting and lining, equipment, uniforms, and more. Go to ksysa.ca for more info.