March 4, 2024 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – San Jose Earthquakes News Release
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes announced today the return of the Quakes Community Coaching Course for its second year, in partnership with Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA), to help diversify the grassroots youth soccer ecosystem in Northern California.
Building on its first-year success, this unique free program is designed to address the barriers to licensing that many coaches experience. The Earthquakes believe in an equitable, accessible, and positive youth sports space and youth soccer ecosystem. However, due to the barriers that exist in under-resourced communities, coaches may face adverse conditions and circumstances that make it more challenging to become licensed coaches and progress through the ranks in the coaching profession.
“The Quakes Community Coaching Course exemplifies the power of collective action and equity in sports,” said Robert Marcus, PCA chief community impact officer. “By addressing the root causes of disparities in access to coaching education, this program is creating a more inclusive and impactful soccer community. This program is a shining example of how soccer can be a powerful tool for positive change, and we are happy to support its growth.”
To advance this belief, the Earthquakes have invested in a program that is designed to educate, encourage, and support underrepresented coaches to further their coaching pathway. Members of the cohort of coaches in the Community Coaching Course will get exclusive access to the Quakes’ professional pathway and learn from the club’s experienced staff, namely Alex Covelo, who currently serves as both director of methodology and on the 2024 U.S. Men’s Olympic Team coaching staff.
“We’re thrilled to relaunch the Community Coaching Course after its huge success last year,” said Shea Salinas, Earthquakes club ambassador and head of youth soccer partnerships. “Developing diversity in coaching and increasing accessibility within the coaching pipeline are essential to growing the game. The Earthquakes are committed to supporting, encouraging, and educating coaches across Northern California.”
In partnership with the PCA, the Quakes will be accepting 30 applicants from underrepresented groups throughout the Bay Area to participate in this program. Participants will begin the six-month course in April. They will work closely with coaches in the Quakes Academy and Shea Salinas to receive training in areas…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at OurSports Central Major League Soccer MLS News…