Become a certified AYSO volunteer
Thank you for stepping up — our region runs entirely on volunteers like you. Every volunteer is screened and trained (at little to no cost) to keep our players safe. Here's exactly what's required and how to get it done. Don't worry, we'll help you through every step.
Start here: register as a volunteer
Before anything else, sign up as a volunteer in your 5 Cities AYSO account. That kicks off your background check invitation and assigns the right training to your dashboard.
Six steps to get cleared
Most are free, online, and take well under two hours total. You only do the one-time courses once.
Background check
Complete a risk-status background screening through Sterling Volunteers, AYSO's screening partner. You'll get an email invitation after you register.
Required · every seasonLiveScan fingerprinting
An AYSO-specific safety requirement. Complete LiveScan fingerprinting at an approved location.
One-timeNote: typically about a $25 fee — confirm current cost & locations with the region.
SafeSport training
A ~90-minute online course on creating a safe, positive environment for kids. Renew every four years, with a short refresher each year.
Renew every 4 yrsConcussion awareness
A free, one-time online course on recognizing and responding to concussions on the field.
One-time · freeSudden cardiac arrest
A free, one-time online course on recognizing and responding to sudden cardiac arrest.
One-time · freeRole-specific training
Coaches and referees complete a bit of extra training for their role — all provided free through AYSOU. See the details below.
Coaches & refereesTraining for your role
No experience needed — these courses teach you everything, and you're never on your own.
Coaches
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Complete your division-specific coach course online via AYSOU
- Attend an in-person field session for any division you're new to
- Ready-made practice plans provided — you won't start from scratch
Referees
- Complete the online Regional Referee course on AYSOU
- Attend an in-person training session to practice on the field
- Great way to learn the game and stay close to the action
In-person session dates: TBD — add your region's dates here.
Accessing your AYSOU training
AYSOU is AYSO's free online training site. Here's how to find your courses.
Register as a volunteer
Sign up in your 5 Cities AYSO account so the system assigns your courses.
Log in to AYSOU
Use your AYSO credentials at AYSO's training portal.
Complete your courses
Find your assigned modules on your dashboard, finish the online parts, and sign up for any in-person sessions.
Add your region's direct links here: AYSOU login, Sterling Volunteers, and the volunteer registration page.
Ready to make a season possible?
It only takes a few hours to get certified — and it changes a child's whole season. Questions? We're happy to walk you through it.