⚽︎ How to Get More Clients for Your Soccer Training Business
Running a soccer training business can be incredibly rewarding—but only if you have a steady stream of clients. Whether you’re working with youth players, aspiring professionals, or recreational athletes, attracting new clients is key to sustainable growth.
In this article, I’ll cover proven strategies to help you get more clients for your soccer training business and stand out in a competitive market.
Build a Strong Online Presence
Most parents and athletes look online first when searching for soccer training. That means your digital footprint matters.
Create a professional website with details about your training programs, pricing, testimonials, and contact information.
Leverage SEO (search engine optimization) so that when someone searches “soccer training near me,” your business shows up.
Pro Tip: Short videos of drills or client progress tend to perform really well on TikTok and Instagram Reels.
Offer Free Value to Build Trust
Before people commit to paid training, they want proof that you can help. Offer free or low-cost value upfront:
Free clinics or open sessions for new players.
Downloadable guides (e.g., “Top 5 Drills to Improve First Touch”).
Short trial packages or discounted first sessions.
This lowers the barrier to entry and helps potential clients see the quality of your coaching.
Use Word-of-Mouth Marketing
In youth sports, referrals are gold. Parents talk to each other constantly, and happy clients become your best promoters.
Ask current players and parents for testimonials.
Create a referral program (e.g., “Bring a friend, get 1 free session”).
Post before-and-after progress videos that players are proud to share.
Partner With Local Organizations
Your community is full of opportunities to get in front of new players.
Partner with schools to run after-school programs.
Connect with local clubs or recreational leagues.
Collaborate with gyms, sports stores, or nutritionists for cross-promotion.
Being visible in local soccer communities helps position you as the go-to trainer.
Specialize to Stand Out
Instead of being just another “soccer trainer,” carve out a niche that highlights your expertise:
Training for specific positions (strikers, goalkeepers, defenders).
Age-group specialization (youth development, teen athletes, college prep).
Focus areas like speed, agility, injury prevention, or tactical awareness.
When people know exactly what you’re the best at, they’ll seek you out for that specific need.
Collect and Showcase Social Proof
Parents and athletes want proof that your training delivers results. Make it easy for them to see success stories.
Post before-and-after videos of players improving.
Share testimonials on your website and social media.
Highlight players who made teams, earned scholarships, or reached their goals.
Social proof builds trust and convinces potential clients to sign up.
Run Paid Ads Strategically
Organic growth is important, but if you want faster results, paid advertising can help.
Facebook and Instagram ads allow you to target local parents and athletes.
Google Ads can capture people searching for “soccer trainer near me.”
Use ads to promote a free session, trial package, or upcoming camp.
Start small, track results, and scale up what works.
Getting more clients for your soccer training business comes down to visibility, trust, and value. If you consistently show up online, build relationships in your community, and deliver results, you’ll never struggle to find new players.
Focus on being more than just a coach—become the trainer who inspires growth, confidence, and passion for the game.
Action Step: Pick one strategy from this list and implement it this week. Over time, these small steps will snowball into big growth for your soccer training business.
Ready to Grow Your Soccer Training Business?
If you’re serious about attracting more players and scaling your coaching, let’s chat.
Book a FREE 15-Minute Strategy Call with me today, and I’ll walk you through the exact steps to start getting more clients—fast.
⚽︎ Looking to Get Into Private Football (Soccer) Coaching to Supplement Your Income? Here’s How to Start
If you love football (soccer) and are looking for a way to earn extra income, becoming a private football (soccer) coach can be a rewarding side hustle. Not only do you get to share your passion for the game, but you also help players improve their skills while building meaningful community connections. Whether you’re coaching kids, working with amateur teams, or running private training sessions, soccer coaching offers both flexibility and financial opportunity.
Understand Your Motivation
Before you jump in, ask yourself: do you want to coach competitively, or are you more interested in community-based coaching and skill development? Clarifying your goals will help you choose the right path.
Get Certified (Optional but Recommended)
While you can sometimes start coaching without formal training, certifications add credibility. Organizations like the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) or United Soccer Coaches offer licenses ranging from grassroots levels to advanced certifications. Even a basic license can help you land more opportunities and higher pay.
Explore Coaching Opportunities
Local Youth Clubs & Schools: Many need part-time or volunteer coaches, often with small stipends.
Private Training: Offer one-on-one or small-group sessions. Parents often pay well for personalized coaching.
Adult Recreational Leagues: Some leagues hire or reimburse coaches to organize and manage teams.
Set Your Rates & Build a Brand
For private training, research local rates—commonly $25–$75 per hour depending on location and experience. Create simple marketing materials: a social media page, word-of-mouth referrals, or flyers at community fields.
Keep Learning & Growing
The more you grow as a coach, the more opportunities you’ll have. Stay updated with modern training techniques, attend workshops, and continue your certifications if you’d like to advance to higher-paying coaching roles.
Football (Soccer) coaching is more than just a way to supplement your income—it’s a chance to make an impact on players’ lives while staying active and connected to the game you love. Whether you want to make a little extra money or eventually turn it into a full-time career, now is the perfect time to get started.
⚽︎ Building a Youth Goalkeeping Business with Jack Carillo
Soccer Coaching Business sat down with Jack Carillo, founder of Carillo Keeper School, to talk about his journey from player to coach, how he turned a side hustle into a thriving soccer training business, and what it takes to grow a goalkeeper coaching brand in today’s competitive soccer training landscape.
Leo: So Jack, how did you start Carillo Keeper School?
Jack: I started working for someone else at a facility, and they were taking most of the profits. When I asked if we could renegotiate my pay at the time — since my program was so successful — the owner had a negative reaction. That led to me leaving the facility.
Thankfully, most of the players and families followed me to my next location, where I managed the facility while also running my own goalkeeping program. Unfortunately, it was short-lived because I tore my ACL while playing semi-pro soccer. Once I was out, no one could really step into my role, and the facility eventually shut down and was sold to another company that went in a different direction.
After that, I took a bit of a hiatus from coaching classes and started doing more one-on-one private training. It was mostly cash-based, which helped with revenue but made it impossible to track profits or expenses like travel. As a younger coach, I made a lot of mistakes I now understand much better.
Later, I coached at a few colleges — New York College and St. Thomas Aquinas — and during that time, I met my wife. We got married, and when we were saving for our wedding, she actually encouraged me to get back into coaching. She said, “Do what you love — it’ll be better than picking up a night shift job.”
That advice got me back into the game. I started planning summer camps, clinics, private sessions, and club partnerships, and over the past five years, that has grown into something I’m really proud of.
Now, we work with about 100 goalkeepers a year and have eight coaches under me — some are in college, others have full-time jobs and coach part-time. We run winter and spring clinics, summer camps, and we’re even planning a holiday Goalkeeper Wars tournament this fall.
How Carillo Keeper School Stands Out
Leo: So tell us a bit more about your business — how is your goalkeeping company different from others?
Jack: Orange County, New York, isn’t known for its financial stability. It’s not like Westchester or New York City — the cost of living and wages are lower. So when some goalkeeper coaches come here charging $150 an hour, it’s short-lived. They usually move on.
My focus has always been on affordability and accessibility. I’d rather build strong numbers than chase high prices. We offer discounts for siblings and focus on creating value over ego.
Where we differ is that I specialize in developing new and young goalkeepers. Most coaches focus on advanced players — the ones already diving and flying around. I focus on the ones who can’t catch yet. We build the fundamentals and confidence first.
One of my proudest stories is a kid who came to me as a 9-year-old striker wanting to try goalkeeping. He fell in love with it and now plays at West Virginia University. That’s the kind of development we focus on — growth from the ground up.
What Makes a Great Goalkeeping Session
Leo: You’ve coached for a long time. What do you think makes a great goalkeeping session?
Jack: First — it has to be fun.
If it’s all drills and pressure without joy, it becomes a chore. The coach needs to bring energy, the players need to enjoy it. After every session, I ask my keepers three questions:
Did you get a good workout?
Did you learn something new or improve on something?
Did you have fun?
That last question is the most important. Goalkeeping is a high-pressure position — we stand in front of hard shots and often get blamed for losses. If you stop having fun, it’s time to step away.
Second — every session needs a plan.
You have to know your goal for that day. Without a structure, you’ll lose serious players who crave direction.
And third — meet players where they’re at.
If you’re coaching mixed levels, you need to challenge each group appropriately. The advanced keeper shouldn’t feel held back, and the beginner shouldn’t feel lost.
Handling Different Skill Levels
Leo: How do you handle sessions with goalkeepers at different levels?
Jack: For my programs, I separate them. When it’s my camp, I create groups based on age and skill:
Future Pros: 14 and under
Elite Development Academy: 15 and up
Within those, we further divide based on ability. On day one, we evaluate everyone and move players if needed. Parents appreciate the honesty.
At club sessions, where you can’t fully separate, I build drills that push both groups — maybe small-group footwork for the advanced ones, simpler catching work for the others. Then we bring everyone together for games so younger keepers can see what the next level looks like.
So — fun and competition together, but focused development during drills.
Biggest Obstacle as a Coach-Turned-Business Owner
Leo: What’s been your biggest challenge since starting your coaching business?
Jack: Honestly, not knowing my worth early on.
When I first started, I just accepted whatever pay I was offered because I wanted to coach. Later, when I tried to renegotiate, I realized how much that limited me.
Also, being a goalkeeper coach used to mean being an afterthought. Clubs often didn’t value the position enough to pay extra for specialized training. That’s changing now, thankfully — parents are more educated and goalkeeping is becoming more respected.
The Future of Private Training in the U.S.
Leo: Where do you see private training going in the next few years?
Jack: Private and supplemental training is only going to grow — not just in soccer, but across all sports. Parents are investing in development for scholarships and college opportunities.
In soccer, the pay-to-play model is both good and bad — it creates opportunities but also pressure. The key is avoiding burnout. I always remind my players: if you stop enjoying it, it’s not worth it.
More coaches are getting educated too — learning about fitness, psychology, and development beyond technique. That’s the direction I see the industry heading.
Advice for New Coaches Starting a Business
Leo: What advice would you give a coach who’s thinking of starting their own business?
Jack: Ask yourself why.
If your goal is just to make money, you’ll burn out. But if it’s to see kids grow and love the game, you’ll stick with it.
Also — make it your own. Don’t just copy what others do. Find your teaching style, your values, your system. And never think you’re the best — always keep learning.
Parents don’t send their kids to you because you’re “the best.” They send them because you help their child wake up excited to play. That’s the real measure of success.
Streamlining the Business Side
Leo: Tell us about your current sales and registration process.
Jack: When I started, everything was cash-based — messy and hard to track. About four years ago, I discovered Demosphere, a platform that handles my website, registration, and payments all in one place.
It was a $500 setup fee, and they take a small cut per transaction, but it changed everything. Now I can track every registration, payment, and email contact automatically. I can compare profits from camp to camp, forecast attendance, and pay my coaches fairly.
Before, I was guessing — now I can run reports, send email blasts, and manage everything professionally.
If you’re still using cash or spreadsheets — trust me — switching to a proper system saves time, money, and stress.
The Next 5 Years
Leo: Where do you see your business in the next five years?
Jack: My goal is to return to where we were heading before the pandemic — residential goalkeeper camps.
Before COVID hit, we ran our first residential camp at a local college. It was a huge success, but the pandemic stopped that momentum. Now, I want to expand into two or three residential camps across the Hudson Valley, while still offering local day options.
We already have goalkeepers coming from Pennsylvania and NYC, so this would make it easier for them and open bigger opportunities for our advanced players.
Leo: That’s amazing, Jack. Thanks so much for sharing your journey and insights.
Jack: Thank you so much — I really appreciate it!
⚽︎ Local Soccer Marketing Ideas to Boost Enrollment for Private Lessons
Running a soccer coaching business or offering private lessons can be incredibly rewarding — but to stay booked and grow, you need more than just great training skills. You need smart, local marketing strategies that help you connect with players, parents, and the community.
Here are some proven soccer marketing ideas to help boost enrollment for your private lessons and stand out from the competition.
Build a Strong Local Presence Online
Your online presence is your digital handshake with potential clients. Make sure your website and social profiles are up to date, professional, and easy to find.
Tips:
Optimize your Google Business Profile with photos, hours, and reviews.
Add keywords like “soccer lessons near me” or “private soccer coach [Your City]” to your site content.
Post regular updates, training videos, and testimonials on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Encourage clients to tag your account when sharing progress or achievements.
Pro tip:
Use short video clips showing before-and-after progress of your players — these get shared often and attract parents looking for results.
Partner with Local Schools and Youth Leagues
Schools and youth organizations are filled with your ideal clients — kids who already love the game.
How to connect:
Offer free demo sessions or a “Soccer Skills Day” for PE classes.
Sponsor a local youth team or tournament to get your name on banners and jerseys.
Leave flyers or business cards at community centers and local sporting goods stores.
Bonus:
Ask coaches if they’d allow you to run off-season skill clinics or fitness sessions to keep players in shape — and keep your schedule full.
Leverage Social Media Challenges and Testimonials
Social proof is powerful. Parents and players trust other families’ success stories more than ads.
Ideas to try:
Launch a #SoccerSkillChallenge on Instagram or TikTok and reward top participants with a free session.
Share video testimonials from parents and players (with permission).
Post highlight reels of your students’ progress — agility drills, ball control, shooting accuracy, etc.
These posts not only show your expertise but also make your brand more relatable and authentic.
Offer Referral Rewards and Membership Packages
Referrals are one of the fastest ways to grow your soccer lesson business.
Try these options:
Give existing clients a free session or discount for every new player they refer.
Offer family packages or group sessions for siblings or friends.
Create a monthly membership model with benefits like discounted lessons, early access to camps, or exclusive training videos.
This builds loyalty and consistent revenue — two things every coach needs.
Attend (or Host) Local Sports Events
Get face-to-face with your potential clients by being visible where the soccer community gathers.
Action steps:
Set up a booth at local tournaments, club tryouts, or sports expos.
Bring branded merchandise like shirts, water bottles, or stickers.
Offer mini skills challenges or free assessments to engage families on the spot.
Hosting your own “Free Soccer Clinic Day” once per quarter can also help attract new players and give you a platform to showcase your coaching style.
Build an Email List and Stay in Touch
Don’t let interested families forget about you after a first session or inquiry.
Email ideas:
Share training tips, local soccer news, and upcoming camp dates.
Send monthly newsletters with success stories or featured players.
Offer limited-time deals during back-to-school or summer seasons.
A well-timed follow-up email often turns a curious parent into a paying client.
Position Yourself as a Local Soccer Expert
Parents want the best for their kids — and experts earn trust quickly.
How to show authority:
Write local blog posts (like this one!) about soccer training, nutrition, or mindset.
Record short “Coach’s Tips” videos on YouTube or Instagram.
Offer free workshops for parents about player development or college recruiting.
Being seen as the go-to soccer authority in your area will naturally lead to more lesson sign-ups.
Growing enrollment for private soccer lessons doesn’t have to mean expensive ads or flashy promotions. The key is consistent visibility, authentic relationships, and strategic community engagement.
When you show genuine passion for developing players — and combine it with smart local marketing — your soccer business will thrive season after season.