TEAM LEVELS, ALIGNMENTS & AGE GROUP COORDINATOR MODEL

For 2020-21, all teams will be structured with the following naming conventions. This is a reminder that in the 2018-19 season "Premier" levels transitioned to the name "Elite". Additionally, we implemented new volunteer coached teams playing under the banner of "Red."  The new tiered system (selections based on playing levels) will be as follows:

1st Team: Elite, Pre-Academy or USSDA*

2nd Team: White

3rd Team: Blue

4th Team: Navy

Volunteer Coached Team: Red

*Except for the preceding age division to the US Soccer DA will be named 'Pre-Academy' instead of 'Elite'

Red Team Model

As announced in December of 2017, Santa Barbara SC is excited to continue in the 2020-21 season to incorporate a model of volunteer coached, Red club teams season. Coaches will be screened and selected based on significant experience and required possession of age-appropriate coaching certification. Designated as "Red" teams, these club teams will allow for a more inclusive player opportunity by reducing the level of training in the Spring to only one day per week. Players on Red teams will still have access to all of the member benefits throughout the year. The reduced commitment in the Spring will allow multi-sport athletes to benefit from Fall participation and training, while still allowing them to participate in other Spring sports. 

Age Group Coordinator Model

Commencing again in the 2020-21 season,  a Santa Barbara SC Age Group Coordinator (AGC) will be assigned to oversee an entire age group (2007 boys & girls youngers), all respective levels (USSDA, Elite, White, Blue, Navy & Red) of teams and players. We have identified the most experienced and motivated coach that has a strong connection with the youth in our program and throughout the local soccer community. They are teachers that inspire, motivate, and can demonstrate basic technical and tactical knowledge at all levels. With this assignment, we are embracing and will continue to improve to drive the growth of our players and staff. We have identified motivated, passionate, skillful coaches who can think, create and work with the entire age group team. The new concept and environment will instill a more inclusive culture and an atmosphere for professional development. Every coach we hire as an AGC must be highly motivated and an active participant on a US Soccer professional development pathway.  Our club and teams will continue to participate in the highest levels of US Soccer, Cal South, USYSA and State Leagues as well. The general overview, roles, and responsibilities of an AGC are:

·      First and foremost, be a positive contributor to individual growth as young athletes using the sport of soccer through Santa Barbara SC as the vehicle

·      Ensure that Santa Barbara SC player development curriculum and philosophy is being implemented within all levels of the age group

·      Utilizing a player-centric approach, overseeing all Individual Player Development plans to contribute to short and long term player development

·      Meticulous preparation for training (for entire age group) as well as matches with individual player development as the priority. Follow and implement the club's designed and comprehensive age-appropriate annual training plan

·      Actively identify and/or empowering staff to identify talent (Local leagues, tournaments & training centers, etc.) and develop an expert understanding of the applicable scouting profiles based on age and position

·      Make player selections that account for and take into account the entire age group alignment a player’s current and potential ability, with a short and long term plan for player incentives and promotion

·      Contribute to the other sporting and professional moments within Santa Barbara SC (futsal, camps, courses, events, meetings, media, etc.) as assigned

·      Continue to pursue an active participant in US Soccer or subsequent coaching education pathway