We are proud to announce that Jeff Hess, a coach with the Lightning College Prep Team, has earned the prestigious NSCAA Premiere Diploma.  The Premier Diploma is the pinnacle of the Residential Academy offerings. It is a 50-hour course designed to teach advanced methodology with full-sided soccer (11v11) as its focal point.  The course content includes a thorough examination of different systems of play, including: technical and tactical implications; 11 v. 11 topics, including coaching in the game, phase play and shadow play; nutrition; sportsmanship/ethics; and a leadership component including team management, personal development and the coach’s role in game development in his/her community. Eligibility for the Premier Diploma requires the applicant be an NSCAA member and have the Advanced National Diploma, the USSF “A” License or English UEFA "A" License.  Candidates with a "Distinguished Pass" in the NSCAA Advanced National Diploma will automatically qualify for entrance into the Premier Diploma.  Additional factors, such as coaching and playing background, community leadership and contribution to the game, are considered. Congratulations Jeff!

We are proud to announce that Marty Ryan, Boys U-12 coach, has earned his NSCAA National License.  Marty completed the 50 hour, week long residential program that provides advanced technical coaching training to those candidates accepted by NSCAA.  The overall objective of the National Diploma is to acquaint the coach with the needs of the American soccer player and provide an organized and progressive methodology of coaching those needs. Basic technical and tactical knowledge is the central theme of the course in a 6v6 model. The course includes sessions on the teaching process, psychological skills training and Laws of the Game. Participants receive a curriculum that outlines the course content and includes valuable resource material. Testing includes oral, written and practical (coaching) evaluations. Congratulations Marty!