Coaching Requirements

Coaching youth hockey is more than teaching kids how to skate and pass—it’s about shaping character, building confidence, and creating a positive team environment. Volunteer coaches play a vital role in developing not just players, but people.

It takes commitment, patience, and a willingness to learn, but the rewards are immense: strong relationships, shared victories (big and small), and the satisfaction of helping young athletes grow both on and off the ice. If you love hockey and enjoy working with kids, coaching might be the perfect way to give back to your community.

If you would like to coach for VAHA, let us know by filling out the application.

USA Hockey registration is required annually for Assistant and Head Coaches. When registering be sure to choose the Player/Coach option when registering. The registration fee is $52.

This screen run by USA Hockey and is a national level policy. This screen is required and is good for two seasons. This screen must be completed prior to stepping on the ice. The screening fee is $30.

USA Hockey SafeSport online training is required annually for all Assistant and Head Coaches. If you have already taken it in the previous, all that is required is a refresher course that can be completed in roughly 20 minutes.

There is no cost for this training.

All coaches must get certified as part of the USA Hockey Coach Education Program (CEP). Your level must both be up-to-date and be appropriate for the level which you are coaching. If your CEP is expiring you must find an available class online and complete prior to 12/31.

Mite coaches (8 & Under) may remain at Level 1 or their current level even if it has expired. Review your current CEP level with the USA Hockey Online Coaches Certification list. Register for an available clinic at USA Hockey Coaching Clinics.

To view available clinic and register, checkout USA Hockey Coaching Clinics.

CEP Levels 1, 2 and 3 clinics are all provided virtual.

Age-specific modules must be completed for each playing level you will be coaching. If you have completed an online specific age module in the previous year, you do not have to re-take that module.