Looking ahead to the 2016 OPDL season, the OSA will be implementing the following recommendations from the Technical Advisory Committee:

In 2016 the OPDL will operate U13, U14 and U15 age groups separately, both female and male. New License Holders accepted in 2016 will compete in the U13 age group only.

2016 OPDL Game Duration

Game times are aligned with LTPD standards and the increased breaks (from 2 to 3) allow for greater opportunities for coaches to interact with their players and make substitutions as needed.

U13 – 3 x 25 minute periods, with 10 minute intermissions

U14 – 3 x 30 minute periods, with 5 minute intermission

U15 – 2 x 45 minute halves, with 10 minute half-time

A new minimum requirement for U13 OPDL Head Coaches has been adopted

All U13 coaches will be required to have a Provincial B license and complete OPDL specific education modules.

The Provincial B License is focussed on LTPD and is more applicable to the U-13 age group. This change increases availability of National B Licensed Coaches within the league to sustain continuing growth.

The U13 OPDL Provincial B License coaches will be given preference to enroll in National B License courses. OSA Regional High Performance Staff will support U13 OPDL Provincial B license coaches in preparation for National B license.

This creates a network of support for U13 Coaches, increasing direct contact with Provincial B license coaches to create future sustainability of OPDL technical philosophy and objectives at the older age groups.

Education modules will be produced specifically for OPDL and will be delivered online early in 2016.

2015 Player Identification to Talent on Location Days (ToLD)

New OPDL License Holders, selected to enter the league at U13 in 2016, will be eligible to recommend 2002 players provided that the recommendation process is followed and benchmarks are presented. This change is to effectively involve new License Holders in the selection process while promoting player participation in the talent pathway.

In 2016, implementing a Player Identification & Recommendation Process for Non-OPDL Clubs/Academies.

2003 Players (U13) can be recommended by any club or ORNCA academy provided the recommendation process is followed.

2001 and 2002 Players (U14 and U15) can be recommended by an ORNCA academy or an OSA Club in a District that does not have OPDL representation.