Do you know any great coaches? – TeamSnap Blog

A great coach does more than just focus on a winning season. A great coach can change a player’s life.

If you know a great coach, give them the recognition they deserve by nominating them for the PCA’s 2026 Coach of the Year award!

What are the qualities of this year’s PCA coaches?

A great coach is…

• A teacher – A trainer which teaches life skills through sport, helping athletes grow both on and off the field.
• A motivator – A coach who encourages effort out of fear of mistakes, suggests growth comes from trying and learning.
• An advocate – A coach who advocates for play, helping to remove barriers such as cost, equipment, or opportunity.
• Role model – A coach who models respect and integrity, guiding athletes to respect the rules, officials, opponents and teammates.
• Community builder – A coach who fosters belonging, ensuring every child feels valued and welcomed.
• A leader – A coach who leads with empathy and compassion, creating a supportive environment for all athletes.
• A supporter – A coach who supports athletes with positive reinforcement, rather than fear, intimidation or shame.

How does the PCA Coach of the Year program work?

The PCA will award 25 finalists and 10 national winners from coaches nominated across the US who embody the ideal of striving to win, while also pursuing goals that are more important than Teaches life skills through sports.

Nominations may come from leaders of school or youth sports organizations, fellow coaches, parents, athletes, friends, or family members.

All national winners will receive $500, a certificate, and recognition on the PCA website, newsletter, and media campaign.

The National Coach of the Year winner will receive $5,000 for their school or program and an all-expenses-paid trip to the San Francisco Bay Area to receive their award in person at the PCA’s annual Game Changer Awards & Benefit in spring 2026.

Nominate your coach today!

You can nominate your coach for the 2026 PCA Coach award through December 1, 2025.

To qualify for nomination, a coach must:

• Have at least 3 years of coaching experience
• Coach in the US.
• Not the previous national doubles goal coach or coach of the year.
• Didn’t nominate himself.

For more details, visit positivecoach.org