The OPDL Spotlight Series, presented by Toronto FC, highlights stories, teams and initiatives from around the league.
This week features comments from Chris Grierson, Senior Technical Director at Oakville Soccer Club.
Oakville Soccer Club has been a part of OPDL since 2016.
Involvement in the OPDL has all Oakville departments playing a role in the growth of the program.
Oakville has witnessed success in player development through OPDL by having players identified to represent Ontario at the Provincial level.
Reflecting back on the past few years, what is your organization most looking forward to in this upcoming OPDL season?
Like every new season, Oakville staff look forward to watching the Under 13’s take the field in their first OPDL season.
Also, the addition of the Ontario Summer Games at U-15 is something new and exciting for Oakville and the Club is always pleased with any opportunity to showcase our players.
The introduction of the Gatorade 5v5 tournament was also exciting for Oakville's players to participate in.
What growth have you seen the OPDL make in the last few years?
Apart from the addition of new license holders, I believe that OPDL has allowed for not only growth in Player Development and Coach Development, but also in Match Official Development.
A greater emphasis has been placed on License Holders to ensure Match Officials are being supported and given learning opportunities.
What sets the OPDL apart from other development programs in Ontario?
As OPDL is a standards based league, it is important that as a License Holder Oakville continues to strive for excellence in all departments.
With various leagues throughout Ontario, parents have many options so it is vital to educate both parents and players of the ways the OPDL can benefit their development and path within the soccer world.
How do you feel your Administrators, Match Officials and Technical Staff have benefited from their involvement in the OPDL?
Oakville's Technical and Administrative staff have benefited from being a part of OPDL.
It has highlighted the importance of always striving for greatness and has helped Oakville to provide its players with the tools they need to be successful athletes.
Participation in the OPDL has helped Oakville continue to provide players, parents, coaches and match officials with a Positive Soccer Experience.
Staff members of Oakville take pride in the success of the players and coaches in the OPDL program.
Oakville looks forward to the continued growth of the OPDL program, and its ongoing benefits to players within the Club.
Bio
Chris Grierson is Oakville's Senior Technical Director. Chris looks forward to seeing players developing their game and striving to make the Provincial Projects.
Chris Grierson
Senior Technical Director at Oakville SC