New York State West Youth Soccer Association (NYSWYSA) and Project Play Western New York have partnered to launch Generation Next, a new initiative bringing free coaching education to young people across the region. Together, the two organizations are creating pathways for the next generation of coaches to learn, grow, and give back to the game.
“We are excited about this new initiative and the support we are receiving from Project Play Western New York,” said Dave Kreger, NYSWYSA Lead Coach Educator. “Our hope is that this initiative will inspire young coaches to learn more, stay involved, and give back to the game.”
Supported by a grant from Project Play Western New York, Generation Next is built on a shared belief that investing in young coaches strengthens the entire soccer community. The initiative kicked off with a 9v9 Grassroots Coaching Course at Buffalo State College, the first of several planned sessions bringing high-quality, accessible coach education directly to young people throughout the region. Future courses are already planned for Daemen University and Fredonia State University, with the program continuing to expand its reach across Western New York.
Project Play Western New York is a trusted resource for families and youth sports organizations across the eight counties of Western New York, driven and funded by Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation’s Youth Sports & Recreation. Its mission (sport for all, play for life) aligns naturally with New York State West’s commitment to growing the game at every level.
What’s Next
With upcoming courses at Daemen University and Fredonia State University, the Generation Next initiative has already started building momentum. Whether you are a young player looking to take your first step into coaching, a parent encouraging a young athlete to stay involved in the game, or a club looking to develop the next wave of coaches in your community, we encourage you to take part in this program. Stay tuned for more information on the upcoming courses at Daemen University and Fredonia State University, and contact Dave Kreger at coachinged@nyswysa.org with any questions you may have.
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