Youth Inc. Recommends: Five Great Websites For Youth Sports Coaches

Coaching today isn’t just about game plans and technical drills—it’s about communication, leadership, and creating positive, meaningful experiences for young athletes. The right resources can help you coach with more intention, connect better with your team and build a culture that lasts far beyond the final whistle. These five websites offer trusted tools, research-backed strategies and real-world coaching wisdom to support your journey, no matter what sport—or level—you coach. 

James Leath 

What it is:  James Leath, a former Head of Leadership at IMG Academy, specializes in teaching communication, leadership and mental performance to youth coaches and athletes. His site features workshops, downloads and practical resources that help coaches connect more effectively and build confident, focused athletes. 

Why we like it: Leath combines real coaching experience with modern performance science. His content gives coaches practical ways to lead with clarity, communicate with purpose and help athletes grow into resilient competitors—and better people. 

Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) 

What it is: PCA is a nationally-recognized nonprofit that trains coaches to create positive, character-driven sports experiences. Their site offers free tools, downloadable resources, workshops and articles to help coaches turn team culture into a competitive advantage. 

Why we like it: PCA sets the gold standard for coaching with integrity. Their material isn’t about soft coaching—it’s about strong coaching that develops winners on the field and in life. 

Coach & A.D. 

What it is: Coach & A.D. is a long-standing publication and website offering news, articles, and tools for coaches at all levels. It covers leadership, athlete development, team culture, and the latest in sports performance—beyond just X’s and O’s. 

Why we like it: It’s one of the best ongoing sources of real-world coaching knowledge. Whether you’re new to the role or a seasoned coach looking to grow, this site helps you stay sharp and inspired. 

Doug Lemov – The Coach’s Guide to Teaching 

What it is: Doug Lemov, author of  Teach Like a Champion, adapts his expertise in learning and communication for coaches. His work focuses on how coaches can more effectively teach, reinforce and transfer knowledge to athletes at every level. 

Why we like it: Coaching is teaching—and Lemov is one of the best in the world at breaking down what great teaching looks like. This site helps coaches communicate with more clarity and create practices that stick. 

The Sport Journal (United States Sports Academy) 

What it is: The Sport Journal is a peer-reviewed, open-access resource covering coaching science, youth development, sports psychology and athlete performance. It offers deep, research-backed insights for coaches who want to go beyond anecdote and opinion. 

Why we like it: This site brings a higher level of thinking to everyday coaching. If you want to understand the why behind what works, this is your place. Smart, respected and completely free.