Meeting of Great Soccer Minds: It is the largest convention of soccer coaches in the world. Held over five days, hundreds of presenters provide edu
Meeting of Great Soccer Minds:
It is the largest convention of soccer coaches in the world. Held over five days, hundreds of presenters provide education for thousands of attendees. Coaches such as Dick Bate, Laura Harvey, Emma Hayes, Reed Maltbie, Ian Barker, Dr. Ron Quinn, & Lisa Cole to name a few. Many presenters will also be giving talks on mindset, managing talent, and how to engage parents. There also is sold-out exhibit hall as well where soccer retailers, businesses and innovators show off their new things for 2017.
Location, Location, Location:
It is on the west coast for the first time in years. Normally it is held in cities like Baltimore, Philly, Kansas City, St. Louis or Indy. This year it will be more accessible for west coasters as it is being hosted in downtown LA where all the action happens.
Hub of Networking:
Coaches from all over the US as well as international coaches will be there, and we know that there will be many trading business cards. The convention is a great place to get out of your comfort zone and make new connections with coaches and companies. At least 60% of my key networking contacts in my coaching career have come out of the people that I have met at the convention. You gotta get connected!
Let off Steam:
We all know that coaching is a stressful career at times and it is always good to let your hair down with like minded people and talk all things soccer for 5 days. LA Live is right next to the convention center, and many of the distributors will be having invite-only parties where soccer people can share their stories and ideas over… refreshments.
Expand Your Education:
We all can benefit from a new activity or a new tip on how to better engage both your players and parents. It is a great way to teach old dogs new tricks. Soccer is ever evolving, so we must stay relevant with changes in the beautiful game. You can even earn a specific NSCAA diploma if you attend particular sessions. I have always picked up a new idea or a twist to something familiar at the convention.
NSCAA Registration Information: Register
If interested in volunteering for the convention: Volunteer Sign Up Link
There are demonstration teams still needed. Contact [email protected] for more information on having your team participate.
