The Sports Factory designed its Frequently Asked Questions section to give applicants a better understanding of the coaching position and the company environment; the coaching schedule, living, transportation and travel arrangements, visa information and the requirements of the recruitment process. We have listed and answered the most typical questions asked by applicants. This helps you determine if the available coaching position is what you are seeking, if you qualify for the position and how to begin the application process.
Positions and work schedule
What is the work schedule?
When is the vacation period?
What is covered in the orientation?
Do you offer any staff activities?
Recruitment and selection
What qualifications do I need?
What information is required to begin the employment process?
How are candidates selected?
What is the recruitment process?
What is the structure of the interview?
What should I bring to the interview?
Visa process
What type of work visa will I be issued?
When does the position commence?
Can the visa be renewed?
When does the visa process start?
Do I have to complete any paperwork in my home country?
Do I have to book an appointment to visit the US Embassy in my home country?
Does the Embassy give me my H2B Visa and Passport the day of my appointment?
Who pays for the visa?
Is there any other legal paperwork I need to complete upon arrival?
Flight Information and Transportation
When should I book my flight?
To which US airport should I fly?
Is the flight reimbursed?
Who keeps the ticket?
Who picks me up at Newark Airport?
What do I need to drive in the United States?
How will I commute to and from the office and coaching sessions?
Can I utilize these cars for personal use?
Are the cars insured?
Who pays for gas?
When are the cars serviced?
Housing
Where will I be housed?
What kind of area is Morris County?
Who will I share the house or apartment with?
What will I have to provide for the house?
What housing bills do I have to pay?
What about upkeep of the house?
What about any damages?
How will I communicate with the office and family in the UK?
Are any other services available?
Compensation
What is the compensation package?
How much is the monthly base salary?
How will I be paid?
When will I be paid?
What is the payroll cycle?
How much money do I need with me?
Additional information
What equipment will I need to provide for work?
What is the climate during this period?
Will I have health and medical insurance?
What should I do now?
What is the work schedule?The Sports Factory instructs youth players. Soccer instruction is a part of the recreation industry. Therefore, our activities are conducted when these players are available for activities. By offering a number of different services to the market our aim is to maximize instructional hours. During the spring and fall, children are in school typically from 8:00am - 3:00pm. Therefore soccer activities are conducted as part of school activities, after school and on weekends. During the summer (July and August) when school is out of session The Sports Factory is able to conduct camps and other activities during the day.
Typically coaches work 35-45 hours per week. Usually this is a combination of actual training sessions, educational coaching clinics, orientations and office or facility assignments. You will have one day per week completely free without any assignments.
Upon arrival in the US, you will receive extensive training and orientation to help adjust you to your new environment and requirements of the job. In February, The Sports Factory will be operating leagues, tournaments and instructional services and you will have the opportunity to assist in the implementation of these services to help you gain a firmer picture of the youth soccer market.
Your employment period can typically be divided into three segments or seasons.
Spring Season:
From March through June you will typically experience the schedule listed below.
| |
9:00am-2:00pm |
2:00pm-3:00pm |
4:00pm - 7:00pm |
| Mo |
Coaches Education, staff meeting and communication with clients |
- |
TSF Academy |
| Tue |
|
- |
Club Team Training |
| Wed |
Office/Facility Assignments/Pre School Clinics |
- |
Club Team Training |
| Thu |
Office/Facility Assignments/Pre School Clinics |
- |
Club Team Training |
| Fri |
Off |
Off |
Off |
| Sat |
Club Team Training |
Team Training |
- |
| Sun |
Off |
Game Coaching |
- |
* Typical schedule. May vary from coach to coach and may be subject to change
Summer Period: July – August
During the summer months you will be so busy instructing there will likely be no time for seminars or education. Camps are conducted daily Monday - Friday and you could be assigned to morning, full-day or evening programs.
Often we are contracted by Leagues to train their best selection or All Star Teams and attend games at weekend Tournaments during July.
The TSF Academy teams conduct an extensive program from mid June through July. These outstanding teams and players practice two days per week and attend major tournaments on three weekends. Staff coaches will have the opportunity to coach practice sessions and oversee the team at major soccer tournaments located in New Jersey and the surrounding states.
The middle to end of August is the peak period of the year, when you will likely coach a camp during the day and a team camp during the evening.
| |
8:30am-4:00pm |
5:00pm-7:00pm |
| Mo |
Camps |
- |
| Tue |
Camps |
TSF Academy |
| Wed |
Camps |
- |
| Thu |
Camps |
TSF Academy |
| Fri |
Camps |
- |
| Sat |
TSF Academy |
- |
| Sun |
TSF Academy |
|
* Typical Schedule. May vary from coach to coach and be subject to change.
Fall Season: September - November
The fall season is busier than the spring, due to it being classed as the official soccer season; meaning that schools and recreation programs offer soccer programs to their members during this time of year in addition to there Club programs.
Coaches will be assigned a mixture of Club and Recreation teams. Staff members with degrees or at least two years college education may be assigned high school positions; the opportunity to coach an actual high school team at games and practices, five days per week, throughout the three month scholastic soccer season.
Again, On-Going Education is a key component of the schedule.
| |
9:00am-2:00pm |
2:00pm-3:00pm |
4:00pm-9:00pm |
| Mo |
Off |
- |
Club Team Training |
| Tue |
Office Assignments |
- |
Club Team Training |
| Wed |
On Field Staff Education |
- |
Club Team Training |
| Thu |
Off |
- |
Club Team Training |
| Fri |
Off |
Off |
Off |
| Sat |
Recreation Clinics |
Recreation Clinics |
- |
| Sun |
- |
Game Coaching |
- |
*Typical Schedule. May vary from coach to coach and be subject to change.
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When is the vacation period?Ten month staff are given one week paid vacation from July 3-7, 2006. Five month positions have no vacation period. Staff with three-year employment will have vacation policy detailed at interview.
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What is covered in the orientation?The orientation is designed to give you an understanding of the youth soccer market; how The Sports Factory operates; introduce you to our department heads and assistants, their roles and responsibilities; educate you in detail on the merchandise and services we offer; teach you how to promote confidently to your teams, parent managers and players; introduce you to company rules and procedure; detail emergency procedures; and help you adjust to American culture.
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Do you offer any staff activities? The Sports Factory fields a team in our 7-a-side league at the Sports Factory. Staff are able to join in our Open Play 7-a-side League. We've also developed a USA/Rest of World optional activities challenge. There will be various staff events throughout the work year including attending sporting events and staff dinners.
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What Qualifications Do I Need?To qualify for the position with The Sports Factory you must have one of the following soccer licenses or higher:
- US Soccer 'C' License
- FA Preliminary Badge
- FA Junior Team Managers
- FA Coaches Certificate
- First in Sport Level I
- UEFA B License
- or FIFA member foreign coaching license equivalent to any of above
Plus
- A minimum of one year coaching experience
- A driving license in your country of residency
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What information is required to begin the employment process?
1. Complete an
Online Job Application
2. Fax to our office (973) 696-9499 - Attention: Zico Nunes
a. Copy of your passport (must be valid thru period of employment)
b. Copy of any prior US Work Visas (if applicable)
c. Copy of your coaching qualifications
d. Reference letter(s) indicating one year coaching experience
e. Copy of Driving License
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How are candidates selected?
The Sports Factory will select candidates based upon: - Interview(s)
- Previous Coaching Experience
-
Coaching License Qualifications
-
Professionalism displayed during the application and recruitment process
-
Timeliness of requested information
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What is the recruitment process?
-
Complete On-Line Application Process
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Submit required faxed documentation to The Sports Factory to confirm visa qualification
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Response via Email from The Sports Factory confirming receipt of documentation
-
References checked by The Sports Factory
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Scheduled Interviews in UK in November of 2006. Exact date, time and location TBA.
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Successful applicants receive Employment Offer and Contract from The Sports Factory
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Signed Contract returned to The Sports Factory by December 15, 2008
-
Visa Processed
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What is the structure of the interview?
Interviews for 2007 positions will be held in the UK during November 06. Exact location, date and time will be provided to you in advance. The interview will be at a Sports facility and will contain:
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A seminar about the company, the coaching position and life in the United States
-
Coaches Questions and Answers Forum
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Assignment of a coaching topic and prepared written session plan
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Lunch (provided)
-
Coaching clinic in which candidates instruct other coaches on field and
participate as players in other applicants coaching sessions
-
Review of the applicants coaching session
-
Personal 1 v 1 interview
The entire interview process takes approximately seven hours. After the interview process you will know everything about the position with The Sports Factory, The Sports Factory will be able to evaluate your coaching capabilities and the personal interview will determine if you are the right person for the position.
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What should I bring to the interview?
Please bring soccer equipment; boots, trainers, and kit appropriate for an
indoor and/or outdoor training session.
Clear copies of the following documents:
- Copy of passport
- Copy of any prior US work visas
- Copy of Coaching Licenses
- Letter on official organization letterhead from a Soccer School, club, youth organization or Soccer Employer indicating you have performed at least one year of coaching with youth players in their organization
-Copy of Higher Education Certificates such as Degrees, HND's or BTEC's...ect (optional)
-Copy of UK Driving License
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What type of work visa will I be issued?
The visa you are issued depends upon the position you are seeking and employment period:
- 36 month position: H1-B Visa; Candidate must have a degree from University
relating to the position at The Sports Factory
- 10 month position: H2-B Visa; Coaching assignments and Coaches Education
- 5 month position: H2-B Visa; Coaching assignments and Coaches Education
As the majority of positions available are seasonal; for a 10 month or a five month period the Visa information listed in this section pertains to the H2-B visa only. Applicants seeking a thirty-six month visa should contact the The Sports Factory office via email for additional immigration requirements.
H2-B Visa
This is a temporary work visa based upon Immigration and Naturalization Service recognizing that The Sports Factory requires a large number of soccer coaches during a seasonal period of the year. This visa allows you to be employed exclusively by The Sports Factory during the period.
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When does the position commence?
Assuming no visa delays selected coaches are expected to arrive:
| Coaching Position |
Arrival Date |
Departure Date |
| Ten Month |
February 1 or March 7 |
November 29 |
| Five Month |
July 12 |
November 29 |
| Summer |
June 27 |
September 5 |
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Can the visa be renewed?
The visa can be renewed annually. Returning staff typically arrive February 1 to implement winter indoor training programs and to administer the logistics of the spring and summer season.
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When does the visa process start?
| Period of Employment |
Visa Processing Filing |
| February 1 or March 7 - November 29 |
December 16 |
| July 12 - November 29 |
December 16 |
In January we typically receive authorization to begin the actual applicant H2-B visa petitions.
At this time we submit to Immigration and Naturalization Service a copy of your passport, coaching credentials and references. They review our company requirements and each individual applicants documents and approve a visa petition for our company with your name on it.
The H2-B petition takes between 30 - 90 days. The Sports Factory typically elects to pay a premium to expedite the petition and receive the approval in 10 days. Therefore, to meet these deadlines it is important that you submit requested paperwork to our office in a timely manner to ensure we meet our deadlines.
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Do I have to complete any paperwork in my home country?
Immigration in the US process and approve the visa petition for The Sports Factory. However, the actual visa stamped in your passport authorizing you to work in the USA must be issued from the US Embassy, preferably in the country you are living.
Therefore, you need to complete a US Department of State DS-157 form and present this in person with your passport at the Embassy with a copy of the The Sports Factory School US visa petition approval (supplied by The Sports Factory). Forms can typically be downloaded from the Internet at http://www.travel.state.gov
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Do I have to book an appointment to visit the US Embassy in my home country?
You will need to contact the US Embassy in your country regarding visa-processing regulations for an H2-B. Typically, the Embassy will require you to book an appointment. You will require a petition number to make an appointment. We will give you the petition number once we submit the visa application in the US.
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Does the Embassy give me my H2-B Visa and Passport the day of my appointment?
No. Typically it takes 5 - 10 days to process the visa. The Embassy typically couriers your completed passport back to your home address so you only need to visit the Embassy once.
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Who pays for the visa?
The Sports Factory pays for the US visa petition application and legal fees. You are required to pay a fee to the US Embassy in your country for your visa stamp in your passport. That fee is typically around $120.
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Is there any other legal paperwork I need to complete upon arrival?
Upon arrival we will have you complete an application for a social security number. You will take this application with your visa stamp and a letter from our company to the social security office. They will issue you a social security id number in 10 - 20 days enabling you to be paid by our payroll service. It is illegal for us to pay you until this number is approved. Once you have a social security number you can open a bank account.
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When should I book my flight?
Coaching staff should book their roundtrip flights upon receipt of there H2B Visa from the US Embassy.
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To which US airport should I fly?
You need to fly to Newark Liberty in New Jersey.
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Is the flight reimbursed?
The Sports Factory reimburses $200 upon arrival and $200 at the completion of the coaching contract. The ticket must be roundtrip on the dates specified or reimbursement will not be issued.
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Who keeps the ticket?
Upon arrival you must hand in the airline ticket to The Sports Factory for arrival reimbursement. It will be reissued to you upon departure.
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Who picks me up at Newark Airport?
We will arrange to have our staff pick you up at the airport and take you to your accommodation. The airport is approximately 30 minutes from our offices. If you fly to any other airport you will be responsible for your own transportation to and from that airport to our offices.
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What do I need to drive in the United States?
You must have a driving license in your country of residence. You will need to obtain an International Driver's Permit and forward a copy of it before your interview. This can easily be obtained from the AA or post office in most countries and will enable you to drive in the US for the duration of your stay. Unfortunately, after the 9-11 terrorist attack New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles no longer issues driving licenses to non residents but does allow you to drive on an International License. Before and when you arrive in the US you will need to study the NJ driving laws. We will forward this booklet to you. Reading this book will help you adjust to the various road signs... etc.
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How will I commute to and from the office and coaching sessions?
The Sports Factory operates a fleet of vehicles, which are usually divided by house. The majority of camps and training sessions are located at client locations typically less than 30 minutes from the office or housing.
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Can I utilize these cars for personal use?
The cars primary and priority function is to transport coaches to and from coaching sessions. The cars can be utilized for personal use. The cars can't be taken out of state. Drinking and driving is strictly forbidden.
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Are the cars insured?
Yes, the cars are insured for events as authorized above. If you have an accident, which is your fault, you are responsible for the first $500, which is the insurance deductible. Our policy will cover accident damages in excess to this amount, unless you are under the influence of alcohol.
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Who pays for gas?
The Sports Factory pays 100% of gas receipts even though we estimate staff utilize vehicles for personal use at least 25% of the time. Each employee is given a company credit card to make gas purchases.
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When are the cars serviced?
The cars are serviced every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or unless there is a problem with the vehicle. You should report any mechanical problems immediately.
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Where will I be housed?
The Sports Factory will provide housing close to our facility. The housing is located in Morris County.
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What kind of area is Morris County?
Morris County is the second wealthiest county in America. It is a great area to live and work.
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Who will I share the house or apartment with?
You will share the house with fellow UK coaches and/or some of our permanent full-time staff.
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What will I have to provide for the house?
The Sports Factory will furnish the house. You will need to bring or purchase in US bed linens, pillows, towels and hangers.
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What housing bills do I have to pay?
The Sports Factory leases the houses from Landlords and pays the housing rent. Housing is extremely expensive in Morris County. The company will also pay utility bills up to a certain ceiling. This amount should cover all utilities. This amount is only likely to be exceeded if you are careless and leave the heat or AC on 24 hours a day, for days or if coaches elect to leave reducing the number of coaches in the residence. If the amount is exceeded coaches are required to pay the excess monthly amount. You are responsible for shoveling the snow of paths, cutting the grass, etc...
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What about upkeep of house?
You will also be responsible for the minor upkeep of the house (i.e., light bulbs, washing up liquid). You will also be required to treat the house with respect keeping it clean and tidy. If you have a garden someone in your group must take responsibility to cut the grass. It will be your home and if you think of it like that you'll be fine.
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What about any damages?
Housing leases in the United States call for the houses to be returned in their original condition at the end of the lease less normal wear and tear. That means if the walls are blue, you can't finish the lease with red walls even if it looks better. If you stain the carpet or put holes in the wall the landlord is going to seek compensation. The Sports Factory will inspect the premises with the landlord upon your departure and you will be informed of and be responsible for payment of any damages.
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How will I communicate with the office and family in the UK?
Each employee is given a company cell phone with local phone service capability. This will enable you to be in contact with our office and the teams you are assigned. Family in the UK can call you on this number.
Are any other services available?
Typically the staff in each house join together to sign up for cable or digital TV. A lot of English, Spanish, German and Italian League game are available live or preview highlight shows as well as movie channels.
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What is the compensation package?
We offer the following:-
Monthly Salary
- US immigration Visa
- PUMA Coaching Apparel
- On-Going Education Program
- Soccer League Play at The Sports Factory
- Discretionary bonus
Or Coaches Package including:
- US immigration Visa
- Airfare Reimbursement
- Furnished Housing
- Utilities
- Car
- Car Insurance
- Car Maintenance
- 100% Gas
- Company Cell Phone
- Local Cell Phone Service
- PUMA Coaching Apparel
- On-Going Education Program
- Soccer League Play at The Sports Factory
- Monthly Salary
- Discretionary Bonus
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How much is the monthly base salary?
The compensation package is discussed individually but it is typically based upon the experience of the candidate, position accepting within the company and length of service with our company.
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How will I be paid?
The Sports Factory utilizes a payroll company to process payments to employees. Staff members are paid via check or can have the salary paid directly into their bank account.
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When will I be paid?
Payroll occurs bi-monthly on the 16th and first day of each month.
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What is the payroll cycle?
You are paid on a bi-monthly cycle. The work for the first 15 days of the month is paid on the first day of the next month. The work for the 16th to last day of the month is paid on 16th day of the next month. Ie, The salary owed for April 1 - 15 is paid on April 30. On your departure the one paycheck cycle owed will be caught up.
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How much money do I need with me?
How much money you bring to the US depends upon your lifestyle and personal financial situation. If you arrive on February 1 you will receive your first paycheck on February 28, so you will need enough money to get you through the month. We recommend bringing to the US at least $ 500 for that period.
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What equipment will I need to provide for work?
All you need to bring is a pair of boots (preferably molded) and a pair of indoor shoes. The Sports Factory will provide: -
Two Warm Up Jackets and Pants
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Rain Jacket
-
Sweat Top
- Three pairs of Shorts
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Two Polo shirts
-
Four T-Shirts
All equipment (except T-shirts) must be returned at the end of your employment. This equipment is to be used exclusively for The Sports Factory coaching. Therefore, if you like to exercise you will need to bring your own equipment.
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What is the climate during this period?
You will be arriving February and it will be cold. In March the temperature will be similar to England. By mid April the temperature will be in the high sixties and will gradually be increasing into the eighties in July. Then it becomes hot with temperatures in the high eighties low nineties through August. September and October are beautiful with highs between 65 and 80. November is similar to England.
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Will I have health and medical insurance?
There is no national health system in the US. Our health insurance policy does not cover seasonal employees. Therefore, you are responsible for gaining your own insurance coverage. Obtaining health insurance in the US is expensive. We recommend you obtain an emergency medical policy from your home country. These are usually available from travel agencies and are inexpensive. You will be covered by workers compensation for any work related injuries and you are covered for injuries resulting from accidents in company vehicles. You are recommended to supply us with a copy of your medical policy so we can assist you in case of emergency.
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What should I do now?
To be eligible for a position you need to submit the following information:
Due Immediately:- Online Job Application
- Copy of your passport
- Copy of your coaching qualifications
- Reference letter(s) indicating one year's coaching experience
- Copy of CV/Resume
- Copy of your UK driving license
Due prior to scheduling of UK Interview:- Copy of any college certificates or degrees
- Copy of your International Drivers Permit
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For further information or questions please contact employment@tsfacademy.com
