CANADA SOCCER GRASSROOTS STANDARDS
Grassroots soccer is the foundation of player development in Canada.
Led by Canada Soccer, the Grassroots Standards create a consistent, development-focused environment for young players across the country.
At WIA, this approach is not new.
Our programs have been built around these principles for several years, meaning there will be very little change to how our Skill Centre and early-stage programs operate. What is changing is the alignment across the country, ensuring all players benefit from the same development-first approach.
GRASSROOTS PROGRAMS - EXPLAINED
GRASSROOTS STANDARDS - THE WHY
-
At WIA, our programs are intentionally designed around these principles.
This means:
Training environments are structured and development focused
Players are grouped based on readiness, not just age
Movement between groups is used to support development
Coaches work within a consistent methodology across all age groups
Sessions prioritize ball contact, decision making, and game understanding
Our Skill Centre already reflects the expectations set out in the Grassroots Standards. The national alignment reinforces the approach we have committed to from the beginning.
-
For players, these standards create a better overall experience.
Your child will:
Have more touches on the ball and be more involved in the game
Play in balanced environments that support learning and confidence
Experience less pressure and fewer early judgments
Be given time to develop at their own pace
Continue to be challenged in a structured and supportive setting
Players are not being held back. They are being developed properly.
-
Active start (U4 - U5)
Players begin to connect their skills to the game, developing decision-making, understanding, and consistency in more structured soccer environments. This stage represents the transition from learning basic skills to training and applying those skills effectively in soccer contexts.
Development Objectives
Improve consistency and quality of core skills
Help players understand how the game works
Develop decision-making and awareness on the field
Introduce simple team concepts and positioning
Maintain a balance of challenge, confidence, and enjoyment
-
FUNdamentals (U6 - U9)
Players build confidence with the ball while developing coordination, creativity, and a love for the game through fun, game-based environments. This stage introduces more intentional skill development while keeping a strong focus on enjoyment and participation.
Development Objectives
Build confidence and control with the ball
Continue developing coordination, balance, and movement
Introduce simple game ideas like attacking and defending
Encourage creativity, decision-making, and lots of time on the ball
Keep the environment fun, active, and inclusive
-
Learn to Train (U10-U13)
Players begin to connect their skills to the game, developing decision-making, understanding, and consistency in more structured soccer environments. This stage represents the transition from learning basic skills to training and applying those skills effectively in soccer contexts.
Development Objectives
Improve consistency and quality of core skills
Help players understand how the game works
Develop decision-making and awareness on the field
Introduce simple team concepts and positioning
Maintain a balance of challenge, confidence, and enjoyment
GRASSROOTS STANDARDS
