We are minneapolis. Volunteer. coach. belong.e
Volunteer coaches and instructors for youth sports are needed throughout the year for MPRB athletic programs.



11 SPORTS. ONE BIG IMPACT.
Soccer | Track | Flag Football | Volleyball | Basketball | Wrestling | Tackle Football | Softball | Baseball | Hockey | Gymnastics
The wins that matter most can’t be measured on a scoreboard
Coaches build confidence, character, teamwork, belonging and memories that last a lifetime
2025 STATS
❤️ THANK YOU, 1,612 COACHES, FOR GIVING 34,756 HOURS OF YOUR TIME TO OUR YOUTH
This is what community looks like
Become a Coach
Volunteers are needed for youth sports around the city! Get started today:
- Complete an application
- Complete a background check (annually, online)
- Complete the (free) NFHS Learning Center "Concussion in Sports" Certificate online (once every three years)
- Agree to the MPRB Coaches' Code of Ethics (annually, online)
- Attend preseason meetings or trainings as determined by the Youth Sports Department and/or Recreation Center Directors

Frequently Asked Questions
- Who do I report to?
- We have full-time staff assigned to each recreation center. Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) full-time staff (park directors) will be your supervisor while volunteering for the MPRB.
- Can I choose where and when I volunteer for a MPRB sport / event?
- Yes, you will be able to choose your volunteer opportunity. We offer a variety of special events and youth sports leagues throughout the city.
- What youth sports are offered by MPRB?
- Fall (Aug - Oct): Soccer, Football and Volleyball
- Winter (Dec - Mar): Basketball, Wrestling and Hockey
- Spring (Feb - May): Gymnastics
- Spring (April - June): Baseball and Fast Pitch Softball
- Summer (June - Aug): Track, Tennis, Fast Pitch Softball and RBI Baseball
- What is the time commitment?
- Volunteer coaches: On average, a team practices two times a week with one scheduled game. As a coach you will work with the park director to schedule times that work for both you and your team.
- Does every MPRB park have a team and host games?
- No, we have 48 recreation centers and not all parks will offer a sport. However, we will help place you with a park in your requested area.
- How long and how many youth sports games per season?
- Each team is scheduled between 8 to 12 games. An average season will last between 8 to 12 weeks (including practice and tournaments).
- Do I need to attend a coaches’ clinic or certification prior to coaching?
- Yes, all coaches must be MPRB certified to coach. A coach's certification consists of a background check, CDC concussion training, overview of MPRB rules and completion of MPRB Code of Ethics. Most sports offer hands-on training too. This gives coaches the opportunity to be trained by knowledgeable clinicians in the basic skills of the sport.
- What is the start date for youth sports practices?
- Practice begins approximately 3 to 4 weeks prior to the first game. See above for sports seasons.
- Will there be a tournament at the end of a youth sports season?
- Yes, most sports will offer an invitational tournament at the end of the season. Your team will have the option to register for the invitational tournament throughout the regular season.
- I’m going on vacation for one week during the season, can I still coach?
- Yes, we recommend informing your park director as soon as possible with the dates you will be unable to coach. This will help the coach and the park director find a substitute coach during your vacation.
- I’ve never coached before, can I apply?
- Yes, many of our coaches started their coaching career with our programs. We are looking for enthusiastic, dependable and energetic people who enjoy working with youth.
- What is the difference between a head coach and assistant coach?
- A head coach will run the team and an assistant coach will help the head coach. Both coaches will work together to coach the team. Not all teams will have both a head coach and assistant coach.
More questions? Contact Tim Grate at tgrate@minneapolisparks.org



