CONCACAF C-DIPLOMA
The CONCACAF C-Diploma is an entry-level coach education program designed to provide grassroots soccer coaches in Alberta with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to succeed in community-based environments.
It is the entry-level course for the Advanced Coach Education pathway and prepares coaches to progress to the Specialist or Professional Streams (B-Diploma, A-Diploma). The diploma involves the facilitation of learning opportunities for the coach to develop an understanding of the coaching process. As the foundational course in the Advanced Coach Education Pathway, it is not only a great way to build a solid foundation in coaching, but it is also mandatory for most advanced competitions and standards-based leagues in Alberta.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The CONCACAF C-Diploma is an entry-level coaching program designed for grassroots soccer coaches in Alberta. As the starting point in the Advanced Coach Education Pathway, it prepares coaches for progression to higher-level certifications such as the B- and A-Diplomas. The course helps coaches build a solid foundation in the coaching process and is a requirement for many advanced competitions and leagues across the province.
A key emphasis of the program is on inclusive, player-centered coaching that supports the personal and athletic growth of players. Coaches are encouraged to go beyond teaching technical skills, focusing instead on fostering positive values, promoting diversity, and creating environments where all players—regardless of age, gender, race, or ability—can thrive. This values-based approach helps ensure long-term engagement and enjoyment of the sport.
The C-Diploma is delivered in a hybrid format, combining six in-person sessions with online learning and ongoing assessments. Topics include Safe Sport, mental health, coaching technology, and principles of play. The course also trains coaches to design age-appropriate training sessions and match applications. It officially replaces the former National C-Licence (phased out as of December 24, 2024), with transition pathways to be provided for current C-Licence holders.
COURSE INFORMATION
COURSE FEES 2026
The course fee of $2,000 covers a range of benefits, including mentor support throughout the program, access to all course content, in-person classroom and field rentals, and tools for in-person and online sessions. Coaches are responsible for additional fees related to travel, accommodations, meals during in-person sessions, and any costs associated with video recording of practical coaching sessions.
ENROLLMENT PREREQUISITES
There are no prerequisites to enroll for the C-Diploma. However, participants must be currently coaching a youth or senior team in Alberta and possess a valid Criminal Record Check.
LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
- 6 days, in-person (classroom & on-field).
- Independent Online Learning (asynchronous).
- Collaborative Online Learning (synchronous).
- Assessment of Competency.
- Guided Mentorship.
APPLICATION PROCESS
The application window opens twice a year with a spring and a fall intake. The review process usually takes place 2-3 months before the start of the course, with responses provided to all successful applicants. Due to the limited number of spots, applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Intake for Spring 2027 will open in January 2027.
The CONCACAF C-Diploma content involves theoretical and practical components focusing on holistic, effective coaching. The workshop covers content including:
- Vision, Mission, Values;
- Understanding the Person, the Practice & the Play;
- Mental Health and wellbeing in coaching;
- Safe Sport;
- The Coaching Process;
- Designing and delivering a training session;
- Introduction to the Principles of Play;
- Developing the individual player;
- Introduction to presentation skills.
- Introduction to the use of technology in coaching.