MLS NEXT Head Coach - Northern Virginia Alliance

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Head Coach -

Northern Virginia Alliance About NVA:

The Northern Virginia Alliance (NVA) is a premier youth soccer club dedicated to developing technically skilled, confident, and character-driven players through a holistic, player-centered approach. Serving athletes across Northern Virginia, NVA combines elite coaching, a nationally-recognized player development pathway, and access to top-tier competition platforms to help players reach their highest potential on and off the field. NVA stands apart through our commitment to long-term development over short-term results, our integration of advanced training methodologies and sports performance resources, and our strong culture of community, professionalism, and opportunity for players aspiring to compete at the collegiate, professional, and national levels.

Position Overview:

Reporting to the NVA Technical Director, the NVA Head Coach cultivates a high-performance team environment focused on developing players technically, tactically, and mentally in alignment with NVA's philosophy, methodology, and game model. Responsibilities for this

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team include planning and delivering structured training sessions, managing competition, supporting long-term player development, and fostering a competitive, positive team culture. This role may offer the opportunity for a second team to the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities:

Training & Player Development Plan and conduct four structured training sessions weekly to align with NVA's game model and development framework. Focus on technical skill development, tactical understanding, physical conditioning, and mental preparedness. Implement age-appropriate periodization plans to optimize player growth and performance. Utilize video analysis, data tracking, and player assessments to monitor individual and team progression. Create individual development plans (IDPs) to help each player reach their full potential. Fully participate in NVA Functional training program once weekly (8 weeks in Fall, 8 weeks in Spring). Game-Day Management & Tactical Execution Develop and implement game plans that reflect NVA's principles of play and tactical philosophy. Adjust in-game strategies, formations, and substitutions to optimize team performance. Ensure all players receive appropriate playing time based on performance, development, and commitment. Conduct pre-game and post-game meetings to reinforce tactical objectives and player expectations. Assistant Coach Support Where appropriate, NVA Head Coaches are expected to support fellow NVA Head Coaches by assisting with training sessions or games when they are not leading their own to help ensure alignment across the program. NVA Head Coaches attend all

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match days to provide Assistant Coach support to fellow

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Head Coaches when not coaching their own team (unless otherwise directed by the

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Academy Director or Technical Director). Team Culture & Leadership Foster a positive, disciplined, and high-performing team environment that supports player development and accountability. Establish clear team standards, expectations, and behavioral guidelines for both players and parents. Parent & Player Communication Maintain consistent and professional communication with parents and players regarding expectations, schedules, and progress. Host periodic team meetings to discuss team objectives, culture, and long-term goals. Educate parents on player development philosophies, playing time policies, and the competitive pathway within NVA. Address concerns proactively and professionally while maintaining alignment with club policies. Administrative & Club Responsibilities Complete all required team-related administrative tasks (roster management, player evaluations, reporting). Attend coaching meetings, club events, and professional development workshops as required by NVA. Collaborate with other coaches and directors to ensure alignment across teams and age groups. Support club initiatives, tournaments, and ID sessions as needed.

Qualifications & Skills:

USSF B License (or higher) preferred; willingness to pursue further coaching education. Proven experience coaching elite youth teams at the club, academy, or high school level. Strong understanding of modern soccer tactics, player development principles, and team management. Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills. Ability to analyze and break down games using video and statistical tools. Passion for mentoring and developing young athletes both on and off the field.

Performance Metrics:

Player development progress as assessed through evaluations and IDPs. Team performance in league and tournament play. Adherence to NVA's philosophy, methodology, and principles of play. Team culture, cohesion, and overall player retention rates. Parent and player feedback regarding communication and professionalism.

Benefits & Compensation:

This is a 1099 independent contractor position, with compensation commensurate with the candidate's qualifications and experience. NVA Head Coaches are also eligible for the club's Coach Education Reimbursement Program, which provides reimbursement for one approved coaching license or certification course per contract year. Reimbursement includes the course application fee and is issued upon successful completion of the course. For consideration, submit a CV with cover letter .

Benefits:

Professional development assistance

Work Location:

In person