Welcome Coaches

Whether you’re just discovering Play Where You Stay or have been with us for many seasons, welcome! Our coaches are the heart of our mission to make soccer accessible to every child in Memphis and Shelby County.

At Play Where You Stay, we remove the barriers of high cost, time, and travel by bringing quality coaching directly into neighborhoods. We believe soccer is a powerful tool for youth development, character-building, and community connection—and our coaches make that possible.

Our coaching philosophy centers on empathy, inclusion, and development. We meet players where they are, both literally and in their growth. We aim to create fun and supportive environments that build confidence, teamwork, and leadership alongside technical skill.

Whether you’re a prospective coach looking to make an impact, a new coach joining us for the first time, or a returning coach ready for another great season, we’re glad you’re here.

Thank you for helping every child play, learn, and grow right where they stay.

PWYS Coach – Job Description

Position Title: PWYS Coach (Head or Assistant) 

Reports To: Program Coordinator / Director of Coaching 

Job Type: Part-time, Seasonal (2-4 days a week, with potential for recurring seasons)

About PWYS: Play Where You Stay (PWYS) is a community-based soccer program focused on providing accessible, fun, and developmentally appropriate training to youth in underserved neighborhoods. Our mission is to foster a love for the game, promote healthy lifestyles, and ensure that every child has the opportunity to play and grow through soccer, regardless of financial background or skill level.

Position Summary: PWYS Coaches play a crucial role in creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging soccer environment for youth aged K-5 and 12-18. Whether serving as a Head Coach or Assistant Coach in our neighborhood or academy program, the role involves delivering age-appropriate soccer instruction, supporting positive behavior, encouraging skill development, and fostering good sportsmanship. Coaches serve as role models and mentors, shaping player experiences on and off the field.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. On-Field Coaching & Instruction:
  • Deliver or support delivery of soccer sessions using the provided PWYS curriculum.
  • Teach fundamental soccer skills (e.g., dribbling, passing, shooting, defending).
  • Demonstrate techniques, guide drills, and manage scrimmages and small-sided games.
  • Adapt session plans to fit group needs while maintaining session goals.
  • Ensure high player engagement, interaction, and enjoyment.
  1. Player Development & Engagement:
  • Build rapport with players and foster a supportive and encouraging environment.
  • Promote fair play, teamwork, effort, and a growth mindset.
  • Address player behavior constructively, and celebrate effort and improvement.
  • Manage player substitutions and ensure equal playing time in a recreational setting.
  1. Safety & Well-being:
  • Conduct field safety checks before each session.
  • Prioritize participant safety and monitor for signs of injury or distress.
  • Follow emergency protocols and report incidents as needed.
  • Promote hydration, rest, and healthy physical activity habits.
  1. Equipment Management:
  • Set up and break down equipment for each session (e.g., cones, balls, goals, pinnies).
  • Ensure all equipment is cared for, counted, and stored properly.
  • Report any damaged or missing items to program staff.
  1. Communication & Administration:
  • Maintain open and respectful communication with coaching peers, staff, and families.
  • Assist with attendance tracking and participant reporting.
  • Participate in coach meetings and training as required.
  • Represent PWYS positively in the community.

Qualifications:

Experience:

  • Previous experience working with youth (K-5 or teens aged 12–18) in educational, recreational, or sports environments.
  • Soccer knowledge (basic rules, skills, tactics); prior playing or coaching experience is a plus.
  • Experience working in diverse communities and adaptable to varying skill levels.

Skills:

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Energetic, enthusiastic, and passionate about youth development.
  • Ability to lead or support small groups effectively.
  • Dependable, organized, and able to work as part of a team.
  • Patience and a positive attitude under all conditions.

Certifications/Requirements:

  • Must pass a background check.
  • CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
  • Completion of mandatory youth sports training (e.g., concussion awareness, SafeSport).
  • Academy Coaches will be required to take a US Soccer Grassroots Coaching Course

Why Join PWYS? By becoming a PWYS Coach, you’re investing in your community, inspiring young athletes, and making soccer accessible to all. This role is more than just coaching—it’s about building confidence, character, and community through sport.

We encourage passionate, reliable, and youth-focused individuals to apply and help us grow the game where it matters most.

Join us. Coach where you live. Play where you stay.

Returning Coach: Apply Here!

New Coach: Apply Here!