The "D" License is a thirty-four hour course typically held over two full weekends. Additional local scheduling options can be arranged, as required. It is suggested that all competitive KSYSA coaches working in 11-a-side soccer hold at least a "D" License. All coaches of teams participating in the Kansas State Cup in the U-14 age groups and above must hold a minimum of a USSF State "D" License before the opening day of the tournament.
The “D” License consists of theoretical (classroom) and practical (field) instruction on teaching the four components of soccer -- technique, tactics, fitness and psychology -- as they relate to games between 1v1 and 11v11. The course also includes an extensive “methods” component, designed to improve the pedagogical skills of participating coaches and prepare candidates for the US Soccer national coaching schools.
The “D” License includes a formal testing process to qualify coaches for the national coaching schools. Coaches are assessed on their ability to create and implement a written lesson plan; identify and correct technique in non-pressured and pressured activities; create “expanded small-sided games” to develop tactical understanding; and identify and improve specific soccer problems, such as lack of team shape, in 6v6 games.
There are three (3) possible outcomes for “D” License candidates:
1. Coaches can be assessed as capable of succeeding at the National Coaching schools and awarded a “National” pass.
2. Coaches can be assessed as “not ready” for the National Coaching schools and awarded a
“State” pass. Coaches who wish to proceed to the national coaching schools can retest at any future “D” License course after at least one season of additional practice. There is no charge for retesting at a regular “D” course and a $100 fee to schedule a 60-minute private assessment.
3. Coaches who fail to complete the course requirements or who fail to demonstrate the minimum competencies to pass the course are not awarded the "D" License.
US Soccer Mandate for the National "D" License