Teens develop technical and tactical ability in soccer coaching and officiating. During the final weeks of this advanced apprenticeship, teens have an opportunity to take the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) "E" License and Grade 8 Referee Certifications.
The Junior Bicycling Ambassador Apprentice Program teaches young people to build their own bikes, learn to ride safely in the City of Chicago and present what they learn to other young people. Apprentices who complete the 10-week program are eligible to work with former Mayor Daley's Bicycling Ambassadors as Junior Ambassadors during the summer.
The Junior Tennis Apprenticeship Program trains teens in the fundamentals and essentials of tennis, coaching and officiating. The apprentices officiate during the Chicago Public Schools Elementary Tennis City Championship.
In the Recreation Leader apprenticeship, apprentices master the creation and implementation of thematic, weekly lesson plans that incorporate SPARK-Active Recreation and explore creative sports, fitness, field trips (pre/post activities), crafts, cooking, nature and cultural age-appropriate activities. Teens have the opportunity to gain useful skills while becoming American Red Cross - Kid Safety Training Certified. Teens are also trained in the Advancing Youth Development curriculum for recreation leaders and group management.
The sports37 apprenticeship offers teens training to become coaches, instructors or officials in a variety of sports such as basketball, football, baseball, soccer and volleyball. The apprenticeship incorporates SPARK-Active Recreation Curriculum, youth development, officiating, lesson planning, engagement principles and group management. After the fourth week, teens participate in a weekly practicum delivering sports to youth ages 6-12 at the local park, school or community-based organization.
Teens learn land basics (including pest management, fertilization, water management and drainage), sports field management, traffic control, budgeting, scheduling, basic repair, marketing, advertising and maintenance of equipment.
Teens learn the importance of healthy eating habits and proper exercise while developing basic tumbling skills they can then teach to younger children in the community.
