MLS NEXT Coach (Virginia Velocity)

Responsibilities

• Player Development and Curriculum Implementation
• Deliver high quality training sessions aligned with the club’s MLS NEXT player development curriculum and methodology.
• Implement age appropriate training models and monitor player development progress.
• Provide individualized feedback to support long term athlete development.
• Assist with player evaluations and contribute to player development plans within the MLS NEXT program. Team Management and Match Preparation
• Plan and lead weekly training sessions in preparation for MLS NEXT competition.
• Manage team performance during league matches, tournaments, and showcase events.
• Analyze team and individual performance using video review, statistical analysis, and coaching evaluations.
• Foster a professional team culture centered on accountability, discipline, and continuous improvement. Collaboration with Technical Staff
• Work closely with the MLS NEXT Director and Technical Director to maintain consistency in training methodology and player development philosophy.
• Participate in technical staff meetings and collaborative coaching initiatives.
• Support internal player movement within the club’s development pathway.
• Contribute to curriculum development and program improvement discussions. Player Pathway and Talent Identification
• Identify high potential players within the MLS NEXT environment.
• Assist with scouting and player recruitment initiatives when required.
• Support athletes in navigating pathways toward college soccer, professional academies, and higher level opportunities.
• Collaborate with technical leadership to ensure players are competing in appropriate developmental environments. Community Engagement and Parent Communication
• Maintain professional and clear communication with players and parents regarding expectations, development progress, and team standards.
• Support parent education initiatives that reinforce the club’s development philosophy.
• Represent Virginia Velocity positively within the local soccer community.
• Assist with club events, identification programs, and community outreach initiatives. Competition and Event Participation
• Attend MLS NEXT league matches, showcases, and tournaments as scheduled.
• Support the execution of club events, camps, and talent identification programs.
• Participate in league meetings, coaching education sessions, and MLS NEXT programming.
• Maintain high standards of professionalism in all competitive environments. Qualifications and Experience
• USSF C License, UEFA C License, or equivalent preferred.
• USSF A or B License encouraged for senior age groups.
• Minimum 3+ years of coaching experience in competitive youth soccer environments.
• Experience within MLS NEXT, professional academies, or elite youth programs preferred.
• Strong understanding of elite player development models and long term athlete development principles.
• Proven ability to design and deliver high level training sessions.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and travel for matches, tournaments, and events.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred. Technical Skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• Experience with club management platforms such as SportsEngine, PlayMetrics, TeamSnap, or similar systems.
• Familiarity with video analysis and performance tracking tools. Personal Attributes
• Passion for football and elite player development.
• High integrity, honesty, and accountability.
• Ability to multitask and remain highly organized.
• Strong leadership presence and ability to positively influence young athletes.
• Ability to problem solve and remain calm under pressure.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary with potential performance based incentives.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the Virginia Velocity and MLS NEXT network.
• Opportunity to contribute to elite player development and pathway creation within the MLS NEXT ecosystem.