Private and small-group soccer coach

Parents of children in house or club leagues who want extra skills work, plus adults who want to improve or get fit.

A set price per session, or a discounted block of sessions paid upfront. Group sessions earn more per hour than one-to-one.

• Good soccer knowledge and playing ability
• Patient, clear and encouraging with children
• Planning fun, structured drills

• Commercial general liability insurance, check what it covers for coaching children
• A police record check including the vulnerable sector, which most parents and venues will expect
• Some municipalities require a permit to run paid sessions on public fields, check with yours
• Winter weather: plan indoor rental space or a shorter season
• Register for GST/HST if your revenue passes the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on your equipment and setup. These are estimates, so check insurance and any other costs that apply to you before you start taking bookings.

Check what commercial general liability insurance covers for coaching children. Also check a police record check including the vulnerable sector, whether your municipality requires a permit for paid sessions on public fields, and GST/HST registration once revenue passes the small supplier threshold.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $400 to $3,000, depending on how many players you coach and your pricing. Plan for at least about 5 hours a week, and consider indoor space or a shorter season for winter.