The “Integrated Model” (IModel) is an Ontario Soccer approved pilot project for the central region, which will be administered in partnership with Ontario Soccer, District Associations and a designated league service provider.
IModel is a league comprised of youth Clubs from the central region District Associations only. The rules and regulations outlined in 2023 IModel Phase 2 Pilot Project pertain to the Qualifying, Competitive 1 (C1) and Competitive 2 (C2) phases of the outdoor soccer season. The IModel league is open to any properly registered Club in good standing as defined by the District Association they are registered. Teams from Districts within the central region that do not offer an IModel division may apply to participate in a neighboring District but are subject to approval from the respective District.
The new IModel concept is innovative and will provide new development opportunities within the LTPD “Soccer 4 life” youth boys and girls District and Regional level competitive streams.
The intention is to integrate stakeholders and existing competitive structures, with the goal to unify the soccer community and continue moving the game forward by introducing modern solutions and concepts that addresses a number of challenges such as; length of season, self-determination, adequate level of competition, seasonal periodization, promotion & relegation, affordability etc.
The IModel drivers are a combination of league criteria and player readiness, with the vision to equally serve all members, allowing even the smallest organization the possibility of being placed at the adequate competitive level based on merit (real-time assessment).
The framework features suitable long-term player development principles from Canada Soccer and takes into consideration the player stage of development (readiness).
The 2022 and 2023 outdoor seasons serve as a test of the model where we will gather data enabling us to make any changes that are necessary to improve the concept.
The IModel and its dynamics combine essential development elements like; mental preparation, goal setting and learn how to cope with competition while players continue to acquire more advance skills.
The variety of the competitive conditions will give these players an equitable opportunity to develop, which will contribute immensely to best prepare their next steps.
The concept also takes into consideration the importance for our youth players (U13 to U18) to have a good balance between family, sports and education.
The recommendation of 3:1 training to game ratio will allow proper recovery between matches and takes into account how travel impacts behavior.
Championship Showcase, for the 2023 edition of the IModel at the Competitive 1 (C1) level, teams will be required to travel (one time) to the Ontario Soccer Centre in Vaughan, Ontario.
Overall the IModel brings all members together and bridges many gaps giving more relevance to players in the LTPD “Soccer 4 Life stream”.
This framework underpins very important principles; affordability fairness, inclusiveness, competitiveness, and affordability with achievable goal setting.
The IModel Annual Cycle important information:
Requirements:
Note: The season dates for any other level of play below the IModel remains untouched, so Districts, can tailor their leagues/programs to best suit their membership needs.
See the 2023 IModel Phase 2 Pilot Project Rules and Regulations located on this page for further details.
IModel Criteria U13+ |
|
Club License |
Yes, Quality Soccer Provider in application process |
2023 Season Length |
Up to 31 weeks window including Championship game [April – November] |
Development Conference |
Up to 12 weeks window [April 1st– June 16th] |
Competitive 2 (including Championships) |
17 weeks window [July 3rd – Oct 31st ] |
Competitive 1 (including Championships) |
18 weeks window [July 3rd – Nov 5th] |
Matches per Season |
20 – 30 |
League Break Periods |
August 1 - August 7 |
League Standings |
Yes |
Match Format |
11v11 “FIFA” |
Match Days |
Weekdays/Weekends |
Head Coach Certification |
C License Trained or Higher |
Assistant Coach Certification |
Soccer 4 Life |
Match Official Grade |
Referee grade U13 & U14 min 5 - AR min 5 U15 & U16 min 6 - AR min 5 U17 min 7 – AR min 6 |
Minimum Team Officials at Match |
4 |
Training to Game Ratio |
3:1 |
Minimum Roster Size (ideal 2 Goalkeepers) |
14 – 20 |
End of Season Break |
6 weeks |
For more information email us at IModel@ontariosoccer.net.
The 2022 IModel Central Region (C1) Finals were played in early November, with eight squads claiming championship glory.
Click here for the full photo gallery.
Game results can be viewed in the accompanying article graphic.
Ontario Soccer congratulates the eight champions and all the clubs that took part in the 2022 IModel Season.