Sting Abilene Club Director Jose Salazar has qualified and begun the process of attaining his USSF Class A License.

“The A license is an opportunity to challenge myself, continue growing as a coach, network, and get to learn from some of the best coaches in the nation,” Salazar said.

The USSF Class A license is the penultimate certification in their pathway and is a huge achievement for any coach.

“Any coach who is awarded the USSF A License demonstrates significant learning ability, drive and commitment,” Sting Technical Director Stuart Hilton said. “The course is demanding in every way and holds coaches to the highest standards in planning and executing sessions as well as supporting theory such as periodization, tactical application, game model and analysis. Knowledge and experience in these areas can continue to elevate the effectiveness of the Sting program in a number of areas.”

In the continuing effort of ensuring Sting coaches have every available tool at their disposal to not only provide their players with the highest level of coaching but also progress their own careers and technical knowledge, Sting contributes to covering course and application fees.

“Sting’s Technical leadership assess course applications from staff on a quarterly basis and contribute significant dollars yearly towards helping staff with formal continued education through the USSF licensing pathway,” Hilton continued. “Additionally, we will identify staff based on performance and need to help advance coaches through the pathway.”

Since joining Sting in July of 2021, Salazar has continued to grow Sting’s footprint in Abilene, finding success both on and off the pitch. Pursuing his Class A license is just another step in his and Sting Abilene’s continued growth.  

“The A license pushes you to become a leader who can build a clear team identity in order to shape the long-term direction and culture of the environment you work in,” Salazar concluded.

Congratulations, Coach Salazar, and we look forward to seeing your continued success moving forward!