Coaches' After School Session Check List
Rush Union
Summary
This checklist provides after-school coaches with a step-by-step guide to preparing, running, and closing out a safe, engaging, and values-driven soccer session. It covers every stage of the process—from pre-session preparation and field setup, to player management, session flow, coaching behaviors, and post-session reflection. The resource emphasizes Rush Soccer’s core values while ensuring coaches deliver consistent, positive experiences for all participants.
HOW AND WHEN IT CAN HELP
- To guide coaches (especially volunteers or new staff) in organizing effective after-school practices.
- As a training and orientation tool for ensuring program quality and consistency.
- To promote safe environments with clear checklists for equipment, rosters, and player dismissal.
- To reinforce positive coaching behaviors and Rush Soccer’s core values in daily practice.
- For self-reflection and feedback, helping coaches continuously improve session delivery.
WHAT WE LIKE ABOUT THIS RESOURCE
The checklist is simple, structured, and practical. It balances logistics (equipment, rosters, safety) with coaching philosophy (values, engagement, positive reinforcement), making it easy for coaches to deliver high-quality sessions consistently.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS WHEN USING THIS RESOURCE
- What needs to be added or removed from the checklist to be effective in your context?
- How will your organization train coaches to use the checklist effectively?
- Can this tool be adapted for different age groups or competition levels?
- What systems do you have in place for reporting attendance, incidents, and highlights?
- How can program directors use these reflections to improve overall program quality?
ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR
Rush Union Soccer is a community-based club serving the Atlanta area, offering recreational, competitive, and after-school soccer programming. It is part of the global Rush Soccer network of clubs. With an emphasis on player development, community engagement, and Rush Soccer’s global core values, the club provides safe, fun, and accessible opportunities for players of all ages and abilities. To learn more visit rushunionsoccer.org.
CREDITING CONTRIBUTORS
The Resource Hub is made possible by the generosity of contributors. It demonstrates the rich expertise and collective team spirit that exists across our soccer community.
All resources that have been contributed to the Resource Hub are free for users of the Hub to learn from, adapt and implement in their own organization and community.
Where relevant, we encourage users of the resources to formally or informally credit the resource creator, to acknowledge their expertise and generosity.