CHARLOTTE, NC (Sep. 19, 2025) — The Girls Academy is proud to announce the launch of the Credential of Coaching Excellence™, a groundbreaking new program designed to recognize, develop, and elevate the leadership of female coaches across our league. Sponsored in part by U.S. Soccer, this initiative provides meaningful, personalized professional development that benefits both individual coaches and the clubs they serve.
For female coaches, this is an opportunity to invest in their growth and earn a nationally recognized distinction that reflects their leadership, development, and commitment to excellence. Through this program, participants will gain the skills, confidence, and tools to make an even greater impact on their athletes and organizations. For directors, presidents, and executive directors, the role of championing female coaches is vital. By nominating and encouraging them to apply, club leaders help elevate the next generation of leadership within the Girls Academy and the broader soccer community.
The program, which runs for six months, is built around the real-life demands of coaching and focuses on three core development pillars: team culture, relational skills, and self-leadership. Coaches will learn how to build intentional culture and bring their “why” to life, strengthen trust and communication within their teams, and clarify their leadership identity to consistently lead with confidence.
Participants will experience a blend of in-person and virtual learning, beginning with a kickoff at the United Soccer Coaches Convention on January 14-15 in Philadelphia, and culminating with a graduation event at the Girls Academy AGM on June 16–17 in Ontario, California. Along the way, they will take part in bi-weekly live Zoom sessions, complete online coursework, and engage in a capstone project that pulls together their learning journey. The time commitment is approximately two to three hours per week, and the program fee is $500 per participant.
What makes this program special is the depth and personalization of the experience. Coaches will work through interactive video-based modules and reflection assignments tailored to their own coaching contexts, while also benefiting from live group coaching and peer discussions. Experienced mentors will provide feedback and guidance throughout, ensuring each participant feels supported and challenged. At the conclusion of the program, participants will receive the nationally recognized Credential of Coaching Excellence™, marking an important milestone in their professional growth.
This credential is more than a certificate — it is a respected symbol of professional achievement. Graduates will gain entry into a nationwide network of credentialed female coaches, access to continued development opportunities, and the tools to elevate leadership, culture, and athlete relationships long after the program ends. The impact extends beyond individual coaches, strengthening entire clubs and raising the standard of excellence across the Girls Academy.
If you are a female coach ready to grow, or a club leader eager to invest in the development of your staff, now is the time to take part in this transformative opportunity. To register, click HERE.
We are proud to introduce this program and look forward to welcoming the first cohort of credentialed coaches.