⚽︎ How to Use Testimonials to Get More Referrals in Your Personal Soccer Training Business
Running a personal soccer training business isn’t just about coaching—it’s about building trust, reputation, and community. One of the most powerful (and underused) tools to do this is testimonials.
When used correctly, testimonials can become your referral engine, helping you attract more players and parents without expensive advertising. Let’s break down exactly how to make that happen.
Why Testimonials Matter So Much
People don’t buy coaching—they buy results and relationships. A testimonial gives social proof that you deliver both.
When a parent or player sees someone like them succeed with your training, they immediately think:
“If it worked for them, it can work for me.”
That’s the magic of social proof—it shortens the decision-making process and turns curiosity into commitment.
The Best Time to Ask for a Testimonial
Timing is everything. The best moment to ask for a testimonial is right after a visible success.
Here are examples of perfect testimonial moments:
A player makes a club team or varsity roster.
A client shows noticeable improvement in speed, touch, or confidence.
A parent tells you how much more motivated their child has become.
When emotions are high and results are fresh, your clients will be much more willing (and excited) to share.
How to Get High-Quality Testimonials (That Actually Convert)
Generic praise like “Coach Alex is great!” won’t move the needle. You want testimonials that tell a story of transformation.
Here’s a simple structure you can give clients:
What problem or goal did you have before training?
What did you notice after working with the coach?
What’s different now?
For example:
“Before training with Coach Maria, my son lacked confidence on the ball. After just a few sessions, his first touch and game awareness improved dramatically. Now he’s starting every match and leading his team in assists.”
That’s the kind of testimonial that sells your value for you.
Turn Testimonials into Referral Tools
Don’t just collect testimonials—use them strategically.
Here are a few ways to do that:
On Your Website
Create a “Success Stories” section with photos, short quotes, and results. Use real names and teams if possible (with permission).
On Social Media
Turn testimonials into short video clips or quote graphics. Pair them with clips of the player training or in a match to make it visual and credible.
In Follow-Up Messages
When a parent inquires about training, include a testimonial from a similar client in your email reply.
Example:
“Here’s what another U12 player’s parent said after a few weeks of training with me…”
That small touch builds instant trust.
Encourage Referrals Through Testimonials
Once you start featuring your clients’ stories, they’ll naturally share them. That’s free exposure—and often the start of a referral chain.
To amplify it, add a simple referral incentive, like:
A free session when they refer a new player.
Entry into a monthly raffle for soccer gear.
When a parent sees their testimonial featured and feels appreciated, they’ll proudly share it and send more clients your way.
Keep It Real
Authenticity beats perfection every time.
Don’t over-edit or polish testimonials to the point they sound fake.
If possible, use video testimonials—even short ones recorded on a phone.
Real people. Real results. Real emotions.
That’s what sells.
Bonus Tip: Automate It
You can automate testimonial collection using tools like:
Google Forms (free and simple)
Typeform or Jotform for branded forms
VideoAsk for video testimonials
Send the link after every 4–6 weeks of training, or after key milestones. Keep it easy and consistent.
Testimonials are more than just “nice words.” They’re your proof of performance—your most powerful marketing asset.
When you collect them consistently and use them strategically, they’ll do the selling for you.
And when happy clients share their stories, they’ll bring their friends, teammates, and neighbors to you too.
That’s how you turn one satisfied client into a steady stream of referrals—and grow your soccer coaching business organically.
Ready to take your soccer coaching business to the next level?
Book a free 15-minute strategy call to learn how to attract more clients, collect powerful testimonials, and grow your referrals.
