Soccer Program Manager
Job Summary
Free Play for Kids is seeking an experienced, high-performance soccer professional to lead the Wolves Soccer Program — overseeing player development, program operations, and the launch of a new outdoor soccer and multi-purpose field. This role requires deep soccer expertise and the ability to build and lead a coaching staff that develops players who are technically strong and genuinely love the game.
The Wolves Soccer Program Manager owns the full program: scheduling, coach recruitment and supervision, session planning, and day-to-day operations. The standard for this role is high. We are looking for someone who can build a competitive program culture rooted in athlete-centered coaching — developing players through challenge, care, and belief in what they're capable of.
At Free Play, high performance and human development are not in tension. The best coaches here know that a player who feels seen and supported performs better, stays longer, and grows more. We want a program manager who holds that truth and builds a staff that coaches from it.
The role also oversees programming connected to the Jumpstart Field, including community activations and special events, and may provide operational support to Free to Play and Junior Wolves as needed.
The right candidate has a B Licence, a serious playing background, and a track record of developing players at a competitive level. They lead with technical credibility, coach with empathy, and bring the organizational discipline to run a program at scale.
Education & Qualifications
Extensive soccer coaching experience at a high-performance level, with a demonstrated background as a player in competitive soccer.
Strong technical knowledge of soccer, including the ability to lead skill development sessions, gameplay, and coaching fundamentals. Knowledge of Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) principles is considered an asset.
Canada Soccer B Licence is required. Additional certifications including Canada Soccer C Licence, NCCP Coaching Certifications, Respect in Sport, or equivalent credentials are considered an asset.
Diploma or degree in Sport Management, Recreation, Physical Education, Kinesiology, or a related field is preferred.
Demonstrated experience coordinating sports programs, with a strong emphasis on soccer programming, including player development pathways, tactics, and athlete-centered coaching practices.
Experience leading, supervising, or managing staff, coaches, volunteers, or teams is considered an asset.
Experience managing or supporting outdoor field operations, scheduling, facility bookings, or league logistics is considered an asset.
Mandatory training to be completed prior to the start of employment includes Rule of Two and Safe Sport certifications.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, based on program, league, and tournament schedules.
Standard First Aid and CPR Certification, or the ability to obtain certification promptly upon hire.
Valid driver's license with access to a reliable vehicle and the ability to travel throughout Edmonton and surrounding areas.
Clear and current Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the planning, coordination, and delivery of all Wolves Soccer Club programming, including leagues, academies, camps, tournaments, and special events.
Develop and manage the Soccer Development Academies, supporting athlete development and progression into club teams.
Oversee player registrations through Free Play systems and external leagues as required.
Coordinate practice, game, tournament, and event schedules to ensure smooth program operations.
Support fundraising initiatives for Wolves Soccer teams and programs.
Develop and maintain program resources, lesson plans, and training materials aligned with Free Play’s Sport to Life curriculum.
Train, supervise, and support Head Coaches, Assistant Coaches, and Volunteer Coaches.
Manage staff scheduling, timesheet approvals, performance evaluations, and staffing coverage.
Provide hands-on leadership by coaching, mentoring staff, and supporting program delivery when needed.
Manage equipment inventory and ensure all equipment is safe, organized, and well maintained.
Maintain accurate records, including attendance, incident reports, evaluations, and program documentation.
Communicate effectively with families, participants, coaches, and community partners regarding program updates and expectations.
Build and maintain relationships with schools, soccer clubs, community organizations, and key stakeholders.
Collaborate with the marketing team to promote programming, recruit participants, and showcase program successes.
Continuously evaluate and improve program quality, participant experience, safety, and athlete development outcomes.
Work closely with the Director of Programs and Chief Operating Officer to strengthen systems, policies, and operational practices.
Community Engagement
Support the planning, coordination, and delivery of programming connected to the Jumpstart Field initiative.
Lead or assist with community activations, field programming, tournaments, and special events hosted at the Jumpstart Field.
Collaborate with community partners and organizational staff to maximize the use, accessibility, and impact of the Jumpstart Field within the community.
Ensure field operations are safe, organized, welcoming, and aligned with Free Play’s mission, values, and participant experience standards.
Organizational Support
Provide operational and program support to other Free Play initiatives as required, including Free to Play, Junior Wolves, Welcome to Play, and special organizational programming.
Assist with in-school Free Play sessions and Junior Wolves programming when operational needs arise.
Work collaboratively across departments to ensure consistency, alignment, and continuity throughout Free Play’s youth development pathway.
Support organizational events, community initiatives, tournaments, field trips, and special projects as assigned.
Contribute to a positive, collaborative team culture and support the overall success of Free Play for Kids programming and operations.
Position Conditions
This full-time position requires working Monday through Friday, with the flexibility to work non-traditional hours, including weekends and evenings, depending on program schedules
Work performed primarily in a recreation centre environment; program sites may vary
Free Play for Kids is an equal-opportunity employer. Diversity and inclusion are values of Free Play for Kids. Free Play for Kids welcomes applications from qualified individuals from all backgrounds.
Free Play for Kids respectfully operates on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional gathering place for diverse Indigenous peoples including the Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, Ojibway/Saulteaux/Anishinaabe, Inuit, and many others whose histories, languages, and cultures continue to influence our community.
