Community Programs

 

EMSA South follows the Long Term Player Development model for our athletes. This plan is designed to give players an optimal soccer experience at every stage by putting their needs front and centre.

Canada Soccer Pathway – LTPD

Our organization is committed to creating a positive, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all participants, including players, coaches, officials, and families.

We foster this environment by promoting respect, sportsmanship, and fair play at all levels of participation. All members are expected to follow our Code of Conduct, which emphasizes treating others with dignity, using appropriate language, and demonstrating positive behavior both on and off the field.

We support enjoyment through:

  • Positive coaching practices that focus on development, encouragement, and skill-building rather than solely on results.
  • Safe and inclusive programming, ensuring all participants feel welcome regardless of background, skill level, or experience.
  • Clear communication with players and families to set expectations and reduce misunderstandings.
  • Zero tolerance for misconduct, including bullying, harassment, or discrimination, supported by a formal disciplinary process.
  • Opportunities for feedback, allowing members to voice concerns and contribute to improving the club environment.

By actively reinforcing these principles, we aim to ensure that everyone involved in our organization feels valued, supported, and able to enjoy their experience in sport.

Take Your Course!

ASAGrassrootsSoccer-ParentSoccerGuide-2

WHEN CHILDREN LEARN THE RIGHT SKILLS AT THE RIGHT TIME — supported by a caring soccer community of parents, coaches, officials, and volunteers — they become more confident in their abilities and have a lot more fun. This means more of them will grow into healthy, active adults with a lifelong love of the game.

ACTIVE START (U4 TO U7)

Our grassroots program follows Canada Soccer and FIFA endorsed Preferred Training Model. This is the Long Term Player Development. Each training session is built around 4 activity stations, focusing on General Movement; Coordination; Soccer Technique; and Small-side Games.  Focus will be building a foundation of the love of the game.

 

FUNDAMENTALS (U9)

Our grassroots program follows Canada Soccer and FIFA endorsed Preferred Training Model. This is the Long Term Player Development. Each training session focusses on Soccer Technique, trainability, speed, flexibility and Small-side Games.  Focus will be building a foundation of physical literacy and the love of the game.

This is also the age group that players may choose to tryout for the more competitive club stream which also focuses on development for these age groups.

More emphasis in the training session will be on small-sided games.

Game Format:

  • 7 v 7
  • 55 minutes (2 x 25 minute halves)

LEARN TO TRAIN (U11)

Our Developmental program follows Canada Soccer and FIFA endorsed Preferred Training Model. It is a balanced program where players of all ability skill levels are challenged and developed. Focus on tactical and environmental awareness, encouraging decision making and self critical game play.

This is also the age group that players may choose to tryout for the more competitive club stream which also focuses on development for these age groups.

Game Format:

  • Outdoor – 8 v 8, Indoor – 7 v 7
  • Outdoor 75 minutes (2 x 35 minute halves), Indoor 55 minutes

SOCCER FOR LIFE (U13+)

Birth years (2009 to 2003)

Our focus for this age group is on the Long Term Player Development Model. This is for all players who want either recreational or competitive level. Players can be newcomers to the sport just taking an interest now or long time players.

Players at this age group have many options to remain physically active in sport, from school leagues, camps, recreational leagues, and competitive leagues. At this age group we want to allow for flexibility for an athlete to participate in all activities while focusing on refining their skills. These age groups will further learn about disciplined game warm ups, cool downs, nutrition, strength, stability, sportsmanship, agility and speed.

Game Format:

    • Outdoor U13 – 75 minute games (2 x 35 minute halves)
    • Outdoor U15 to U19 – 90 minutes game (2 x 45 minute halves)
    • Indoor U13 to U19 7V7 – 55 minute game