Coaching Courses

BC Soccer Association has put together a coaching certification mandate that states all coaches in the province most attend and complete a coaching certification course that matches the age of the players they are working with by June 2016. As a member club of BC Soccer, North Delta would like to fully cooperate with this initiative as we feel coach education a fundamental avenue of support for both new and experienced coaches working with young players.

The cost of the courses is fully covered by North Delta Soccer and is available for you to register with a user code so there no out of pocket expenses to be reimbursed later.

The following on field courses are available to only coaches who have completed the online component of the course. Confirmed coaches for the season will receive an email from Eva, Admin Assistant who will provide coaches with more information on how to register for the on-field course and other important information.

ACTIVE START (U5- U6)

At this stage, players should participate in stimulating practices and games that develop basic technical skills in a FUN atmosphere. The emphasis should be movement exercises and games that promote a feel for the ball while teaching basic principles of play within a fun but structured setting. Informal games can be set up at the end of practices or as part of a jamboree mixing exercising and games. Play equal time and try all team positions, including goalkeeper, and equal time should be allotted to practices and games.

FUNDAMENTALS (U7-U8)

At this stage, players should participate in stimulating practices and games that develop basic technical skills in a FUN atmosphere. The emphasis should be movement exercises and games that promote a feel for the ball while teaching basic principles of play within a fun but structured setting. Mini game formats are used, ranging from 3v3 to 5v5 and a basic league schedule can be created but no standings should be kept. All players should play equal time and try all team positions, including goalkeeper, and equal time should be allotted to practices and games.

LEARNING TO TRAIN (U9-U12 Boys/u9-u11 girls)

This stage introduces players to disciplined training and begins to develop their understanding of principles of play alongside their skills practice. Repetitions are important to develop technical proficiency, but creating a fun and challenging environment is still paramount to stimulate learning and promote a love of the game. Game formats can range from 6v6 to 8v8 as players advance through this stage, and again a simple league schedule can be created, but no standings should be kept – the emphasis is still FUN. All players play equal time and try all team positions, including goalkeeping, and the training to competition ratio should be 2 to 3 training sessions for every game.

SOCCER FOR LIFE ( U13+)

At this stage, skill training demands and training loads are increased to develop and refine skills and tactics. Tactical awareness becomes an increasingly important facet of training, alongside mental toughness, concentration, and diligence. Elite soccer groups may express interest in recruiting talented young players, but coaches and parents should be careful to recognize and protect the long-term interests of each athlete. Game formats develop from 8v8 to 11v11 (although no 11v11 prior to 13 years of age) as players grow through this stage, and the season moves toward year-round play that includes appropriate rest and recovery periods.

Academy Programs - Registration Opens August 1