MLS NEXT Coach (Virginia Velocity)

About Sofive


Sofive Soccer Centers is a nationwide sports organization operating 22 sports facilities and five youth soccer clubs across 10 U.S. states, with additional locations currently in development. Virginia Velocity, a member club within the Sofive network, is seeking a MLS NEXT Coach to lead and support elite youth player development within its MLS NEXT program. The MLS NEXT Coach will be responsible for delivering high level training sessions, managing team performance, and supporting the technical development of players in alignment with MLS NEXT standards and best practices in elite youth development.

This role collaborates closely with club leadership, the MLS NEXT Director, and fellow coaching staff to implement the club’s development curriculum while maintaining a professional, high performance training environment. The position reports directly to the MLS NEXT Director and the Club Executive Director.

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.

Club Operations

Midlothian, VA

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