We are excited to release the newly developed Adapted Match Formats Laws of the Game, a unified resource that replaces the previous Small-Sided Laws of the Game document. This new document aligns with the newly mandated Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards and consolidates multiple documents into one clear and practical guide.

• Alignment with the Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards
• Consistency across Ontario to eliminate confusion caused by varying interpretations
• Simplified for ease of use by coaches, referees and competition administrators
• Player-centered to support safe, inclusive and developmentally appropriate match formats

• Laws of the Game for the 3v3, 4v4, 5v5, 7v7 and 9v9 formats
• Guidance on field setup, equipment, match duration, restart procedures and retreat line
• Integration of IFAB Laws of the Game where applicable

Click HERE or visit the Ontario Soccer website under Officials – Laws of the Game & Rules.

In addition to the Adapted Match Formats Laws of the Game, Ontario Soccer is excited to share the following updated resources:

• Field Orientation Guide
  • The full Field Orientation Guide is now available, expanding on the previously released 9v9 version. This guide supports proper field setup across all grassroots formats in alignment with the Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards.
• Retreat Line Information Document
  • The Retreat Line Information document has been revised and now aligns with the Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards and provides updated guidance for implementation across all formats.
• Municipality Letter for Grassroots Soccer Fields
  • To support field access and development, Ontario Soccer has released a Municipality Letter that can be used by clubs and districts when engaging with local municipalities regarding grassroots field requirements.

Ontario Soccer is pleased to announce an update to the Fast Tracking Player Development Process, reflecting our commitment to streamlining administration and aligning with the Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards. Additional information on Fast Tracking can be found on the Ontario Soccer website under Player – Grassroots Resources – Fast Tracking.

Key Updates:

1. Digital Submission
   1. All evaluations must now be submitted via the official online form. Paper forms will no longer be accepted. 
   2. Fast Tracking Evaluation Form can be found HERE.
2. Expanded Age Groups
   1. U13 players are now eligible for evaluation to Fast Track to U14, in alignment with the Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards.
3. District Approvers
   1. Submissions are sent to designated approvers via pre-approved district emails for validation
4. Licensed Evaluators
   1. As per the Operational Procedures, only individuals who hold a valid Ontario Soccer Technical Director’s Diploma or Canada Soccer’s Children’s Diploma may submit evaluations. Proof of licensing is required.

As reminder following Rowan’s Law Day on September 24, we ask that all clubs and their coaches review the Ontario Soccer Heading Resources page. Here you can find age-appropriate guidelines, webinars, training videos educating players and coaches on proper heading form, neck and core strengthening videos, heading training activity examples, and research to support safe and effective heading in soccer.

Should you have any questions regarding any of the grassroots-related resources, please contact Cameron Oliver, Coordinator, Player Development at coliver@ontariosoccer.net.

Thank you for your continued commitment to the development of Ontario’s Grassroots game.