United DFC is one of the largest clubs in Nova Scotia, with over 2,500 players from Under 3 to Senior. United DFC delivers community soccer programs in Dartmouth, Cole Harbour and Eastern Passage communities. We field competitive teams in Soccer Nova Scotia leagues at all age levels.
Why we do it:
United DFC’s mission is to promote and grow the sport of soccer in our communities, creating pathways and opportunities for players and volunteers to be involved in soccer for life. Many of our Coaches and Volunteers grew up playing in these communities and are giving back to the next generation of participants.
We strive to be recognized as a leading and progressive soccer club in Canada in the areas of player and coach development, community integration and responsible governance.
What does it take to coach:
Coaching at UDFC can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but comes with responsibilities. Our coaches commit time not only to develop people and players but themselves. To coach at UDFC, all coaches are taken through an onboarding process which prepares them for a coaching assignment. All coaches will be guided through the process of obtaining necessary certifications, including:
This ensures the safety of all participants and assists in delivering high-quality programs throughout our levels.
Who can coach:
We welcome avid soccer fanatics, ex-players, guardians who want to make a difference, young coaches hoping to build a career and people with no experience at all but a commitment to growing themselves and the players they interact with. We are ready to make the commitment to you as a coach and would welcome your involvement.
Who might I coach?
Our programs run from U3 Minis through AAA Senior Competition. We will find the right fit for you based on your interests and availability and work with you to develop the necessary skills for your coaching assignment.
Many coaches enter the game at the grassroots level or as an Assistant Coach where they have an opportunity to be mentored by a more experienced Coach. However, we want all coaches to have meaningful coaching experiences where they lead parts of sessions and gain lived experience.
We also run special programs which require unique skill sets, for example, Futsal or our Special Olympics inclusive program.
What resources are available to coaches?
In alignment with our Long-Term Coach Development (LTCD) model, UDFC has regular Education opportunities for our coaches - including with individuals who have National and International credentials and Coaching experience. See our Coach Development Calendar for 2023 here.
To encourage the development of our coaches, we have a competitive stipend model and Staff Coaching opportunities for Head Coaches and other program coaches who may wish to pursue casual, part-time or potentially full-time employment with the club.
How do I start?
If you have questions, please contact our Technical team: Director of Soccer, Fawn Mulholland or Grassroots & Community Technical Director, Sam Boswell. Alternatively, you may submit a coaching application here. If you do not receive a follow-up within 48 hours, please email our Technical team anyway.
