The Burlington Youth Soccer Club is one of the largest youth sport organizations in Canada and is the home of the Burlington Bayhawks competitive teams. The BYSC is home to over 8,000 participants annually combined in both our outdoor and indoor programs, coached by over 700 coaches.
Burlington strive to become the leading community sports club in Canada, delivering the best recreational and competitive player experience that inspires a life-long passion for the game of soccer.
Claude Bolton, the BYSC Technical Director, answered a few question on why their club decided to become a OPDL license holder and what their long terms plans are in the program.
) Why did Burlington apply for an OPDL License in 2013?
“As a supporter of LTPD, we believe that the OPDL is extension of our elite development pathway that will provide an opportunity for our players to test themselves again other like-minded players throughout the province. This pathway will ensure that our players maximize their full potential. More importantly, by participating in this challenging environment we would have created the highest level of competition for our young players to aspire to. The apex of this development pyramid will also play a significant role in our players remaining active for life.”
2) What long-term goals does Burlington have with regards to offering the OPDL?
“The BYSC believes that we can be a flagship club for the OPDL and continue to increase the number of teams each season to the league maximum. We believe that the continued success of this league, its players and coaches will only enhance the playing and coaching experience at the BYSC.”
3) What other benefits do you see within the organization in providing OPDL teams?
“Core to the brand identity of the Burlington Youth Soccer Club is elite player development. Our reputation for being a top player development club enables the BYSC to develop, retain and attract several players that have represented Canada on the International Stage. The BYSC is confident in that the OPDL will heighten this reputation and provide more players with the right environment to progress in their soccer careers.”
4) If you could also give a brief synopsis of what defines Burlington as a soccer club and its membership.
“We strive to nurture the life character skills, active lifestyle and positive environment necessary for our youth to become Burlington’s Leaders and Champions of Tomorrow, by developing:
As part of our commitment to OPDL, we will also ensure that our coaches remain current and educated on the modern trends needed to coach players today. Our goal is to support and develop quality coaches that adhere to the standards established by the club. All coaches will have a moral and ethical responsibility to make sure that we are not only developing soccer players, but well-rounded individuals for our community.”