Quick answers to common questions from Parents and Coaches. Can’t find what you need? Contact us.
For Parents & Players
What is HavaCoach?
HavaCoach is a Northern Ireland–based platform that connects families with verified football coaches for 1-to-1 sessions, small group training, and camps. It lets you search by location and type of session, then book and pay securely online.
How are coaches verified?
Every coach on HavaCoach must provide an up-to-date AccessNI (or equivalent) background check before they can go live on the platform. Their documents are manually checked, and only then are they approved to appear in search and receive bookings.
Do you verify coaching qualifications or insurance?
At the moment, we only formally verify safeguarding checks (AccessNI or equivalent). Coaches can add their coaching qualifications, experience, and insurance details to their profile so you can review them before booking.
How do I find a coach near me?
Use the search bar or filters to enter your area (for example Belfast, Newtownabbey, Lisburn), and choose the type of session you want. The platform then shows you coaches who match and have availability.
What types of sessions can I book?
You can book:
– 1-to-1 coaching
– Small group sessions
– Holiday camps and clinics
Each coach lists exactly what they offer on their profile.
How do bookings work?
You choose a coach, pick a time from their available slots, and complete booking/payment online. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details. The coach also receives the booking in their dashboard.
What happens if a coach cancels?
If a coach has to cancel, you’ll be notified by email. You’ll be offered either a rescheduled session or a refund in line with the platform’s cancellation policy.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel or request a change through your account within the time window set out in the cancellation policy shown at checkout. Any refunds or fees will be clearly displayed before you confirm.
Is my child’s data safe?
We only collect the minimum information needed to manage bookings safely (for example, name, age, relevant medical notes). All data is stored securely and handled in line with UK GDPR and our Privacy Policy.
How do payments work and is it secure?
Payments are taken online using a secure payment processor (e.g. Stripe). Your card details are never stored by HavaCoach. You’ll see the full amount and any fees before you pay.
Can I contact a coach before booking?
Yes. Many coaches allow you to send a message via the platform to ask questions before you book. Use the “Message Coach” button on their profile if available.
What should my child bring to a session?
Typically: appropriate footwear, shin guards, water, and weather-appropriate kit. Some coaches will list specific requirements in the session description or confirmation email.
What age groups do you cater for?
Each coach sets their own age range. You can filter by age in the search filters, and each listing will clearly show which ages they accept.
What should I do if I have a concern about a coach or session?
If you have any safeguarding or conduct concerns, contact HavaCoach immediately using the contact form or email shown on the site. Serious concerns about child safety should also be reported to the relevant authorities.
For Coaches
What is HavaCoach and who is it for?
HavaCoach is a booking platform built for football coaches in Northern Ireland who want to grow their client base and reduce admin. It’s ideal for coaches working around club commitments, another job, or changing schedules.
How do I join as a coach?
Click “Join as a Coach” and complete the registration form. You’ll be asked for basic details and your AccessNI certificate or reference. Once submitted, your account will be reviewed before going live.
What checks do I need to pass?
You must provide a valid AccessNI (or equivalent) safeguarding check suitable for working with children, usually issued within the last few years. We manually review every document before approving your account.
Do I need to upload qualifications or insurance?
You are not required to upload coaching qualifications or insurance for verification, but we strongly recommend adding them to your profile. Parents use this information when deciding who to book.
How do I list my sessions?
Once approved, you can create listings from your Dashboard for:
– 1-to-1 sessions
– Small group sessions
– Camps or clinics
Click ‘Add a Listing’ in your Dashboard and set the description, price, location, and who the session is for.
How does the availability and calendar work?
You add the time slots you are actually free (around club and job commitments). Parents can only book into those open slots. If your schedule changes, you simply update your availability in your dashboard.
How do I get paid?
Payments are collected online when a parent books. After the session, your earnings (minus platform fees) are available to view in you dashboard Wallet. From here, you can send to the bank account you’ve linked to your payout profile. Payout timings are shown in the coach dashboard.
What fees does HavaCoach charge?
You pay a commission on each booking (for example, a percentage of the session price). The exact fee and any other charges will be clearly displayed in your coach agreement and dashboard.
Can I bring my existing clients onto HavaCoach?
Yes. You can invite existing clients to book you via HavaCoach so that all your bookings, payments, and schedules are in one place.
What if a parent cancels?
Your cancellation rules (e.g. minimum notice period, partial refunds) will be shown to parents at booking. When a parent cancels, the system applies your policy automatically.
What if I need to cancel a session?
If you must cancel, you should do so as early as possible through the dashboard. The parent will be notified and either refunded or offered a reschedule according to the platform rules.
Can I run group sessions or camps through HavaCoach?
Yes. You can create listings for small groups or larger camps, set the maximum number of players, and manage bookings and payments through the platform.
How do reviews work?
Parents may be invited to leave a review after a session or camp. Good reviews help you stand out and attract more bookings. Reviews must follow the platform’s guidelines.
Can I pause my account if my situation changes?
If you need to stop taking bookings for a while (for example, due to injury or new commitments), you can close your availability or temporarily hide your listings, rather than deleting your account.
Who do I contact if I need help?
If you have any questions about your account, verification, or bookings, you can reach out via the support/contact page. Include your name, email, and a brief description of the issue for faster help.
