⚽︎ How to Start a Soccer Performance Coaching Business from Scratch in the USA
The soccer industry in the United States has exploded over the last decade—more youth players, more academies, more college opportunities, and more parents investing in specialized training. Because of this, soccer performance coaching has become one of the fastest-growing niches in the sports and fitness world.
If you’re passionate about the game and want to turn that into a business, this guide breaks down everything you need to start a successful soccer performance business from scratch—no gym, no investors, and no complicated setup required.
Define Your Business Model
Before you buy any equipment or create a logo, decide what type of soccer performance business you want to run.
Here are the most common models:
Private 1:1 Training
Highest hourly rate
Personalized training plans
Best for elite or highly motivated players
Small Group Training (3–8 players)
Most profitable and scalable
Players get competition + instruction
Preferred by parents for affordability
Camps & Clinics
Great for generating fast revenue
Includes speed/agility workshops, finishing clinics, goalkeeper camps
Team Performance Training
Contract with local clubs
Guaranteed recurring income
Less marketing required
Online Programs
Video analysis
Monthly performance subscription
Home training programs
Start with one or two models, then expand as your client base grows.
Register Your Business
In the USA, starting a performance business can be simple.
Steps:
Choose your business structure (LLC recommended for liability protection)
Register your business with your state
Get an EIN (free via IRS.gov)
Set up a business bank account
Approximate cost: $100–$300 depending on your state
Get Insurance
Because you’re training athletes, liability insurance is essential.
Look for:
General liability
Professional liability
Accident coverage
Typical cost: $150–$350 per year
Organizations like NASM, USPTA, and sports liability providers offer good coverage options.
Choose Your Training Locations
You do NOT need to own a facility to start.
Here are the best starting points:
Local parks
Community turf fields
School fields (with permit)
Indoor sports complexes (rent by the hour)
As your business grows, you can consider getting your own facility—but it’s not required for success.
Equipment You Need
You can launch your business with a small setup:
Cones
Agility ladder
Speed hurdles
Mini bands
Resistance bands
Poles
Stop watch or timing app
Portable goals (optional)
Total cost to start: $150–$300
Build Your Performance System
What sets great soccer performance coaches apart is having a signature training methodology.
Create systems for:
Speed & acceleration
Agility & change of direction
Strength & stability
Position-specific skills
Recovery & injury prevention
Testing & progress tracking
A consistent system builds trust and improves retention.
Create a Simple Online Presence
You don’t need a fancy website on day one—start lean.
Minimum required:
✔ Instagram (your #1 tool)
✔ Google Business Profile
✔ Simple landing page (Linktree, Carrd, or one-page site)
Post:
Session clips
Speed tests
Testimonials
Case studies
Tips for players
Consistency builds authority.
Set Your Pricing
Here are typical U.S. ranges:
1:1 Training
$60–$150 per hour
(Depending on experience + location)
Small Group
$20–$50 per player per session
Team Training
$75–$200 per hour
Camps
$100–$250 per player for a weekend clinic
Start at the lower end, build demand, then raise prices as you grow.
Get Your First 10 Clients
Here are the fastest ways to get players quickly:
✔ Partner with local soccer clubs
Offer a free team session to build relationships.
✔ Ask players for referrals
Parents talk—use it to your advantage.
✔ Offer a “first session free” promotion
Get them in the door; your training will close the deal.
✔ Join local soccer Facebook groups
Share value, not spam.
✔ Drop by league games with business cards
Introduce yourself to coaches and parents.
Scale Your Soccer Performance Business
Once your schedule is full, scale by:
Adding more group sessions
Hiring assistant coaches
Creating online training programs
Running seasonal camps
Partnering with schools and clubs
Your business can evolve into a full-time operation with real income potential.
Ready to Start Your Soccer Performance Business?
If you want personalized guidance on structure, pricing, marketing, and how to get your first paying clients…
👉 Book a FREE 15-Minute Strategy Call
I’ll walk you through exactly what you need to launch quickly and profitably.