Coach Today, Lead for Life — Program Application

About This Program

The Women's Coaching Alliance is on a mission to develop female leaders through coaching youth sports. The Coach Today, Lead for Life program is a 12–18 month paid leadership development experience in which participants coach young athletes in their community while building the confidence, communication skills, and character that translate directly to college, careers, and life.

This is a real commitment — and that's what makes it real leadership. This program is a 12–18 month commitment that requires sustained engagement throughout. During coaching seasons, participants are expected to attend scheduled practices, games, and mentor check-ins. Between seasons, the time commitment is lighter, but active engagement continues. Participants are expected to attend scheduled sessions and events, respond to communication in a timely way, and stay engaged across all phases of the program.

Who You Are

• Identify as female
• Have played the sport you are interested in coaching at the middle school level or higher
• Are at least 15 years old or a rising sophomore
• Aspire to be a leader or role model for younger kids

No prior coaching experience required!

What You'll Do

As a WCA coach, you will:

• Coach young athletes alongside a co-coach
• Motivate kids to learn new skills while keeping sport fun
• Prepare, organize, and adapt practice and game plans for athletes of different skill levels
• Communicate with kids, parents, co-coaches, and other stakeholders
• Attend a Leadership Academy training before your season begins
• Meet weekly with a dedicated adult mentor throughout the season
• Coach 1-2 practices per week and games throughout the season. Typically, practices are held during the week and games on weekends.
• Commit to 12–18 months of engagement

What’s Required

• Must be at least 15 years old or a rising sophomore
• Experience playing the sport you are interested in coaching at the middle school level or higher
• Must be reliable, prompt, and dependable
• Must attend the Leadership Academy Training if accepted into the program
• We expect coaches to attend all practices and games. Note: If you are playing a high school or club sport during the season in which you want to coach, you may not be eligible due to schedule conflicts.
• If under age 18, must obtain a work permit

What You'll Receive

• A paid stipend
• A co-coach to partner with throughout the season
• Leadership Academy training and sample practice plans
• A dedicated adult mentor with weekly check-ins throughout your season
• A peer cohort going through the program alongside you
• Professional development content delivered throughout the year