Parent
Supporting Your Child's Journey Through Soccer
Parents play an essential role in supporting young players. The guiding principle is that players of all ages and abilities should have the opportunity to enjoy the game of soccer and grow as participants and people. Through Long Term Player Development (LTPD) players will be able to learn and compete at appropriate levels throughout their lives.
Parents and coaches can find resources in this section that outline LTPD and the three areas of technical programs in the province: Grassroots, Soccer for Life, and the Talented Pathway.
How Parents Can Support Their Child at Games
- Before the game: Encourage hydration and provide encouragement!
- During the game: Cheer positively; avoid coaching from the sidelines.
- After the game: Celebrate effort, ask what they enjoyed, and avoid focusing on results.
- At home: Promote balance - encourage schoolwork, friendships, rest, and multi-sport participation!
Why Parents Matter in Player Development
Parents are the first and most important supporters in a child’s soccer journey. The attitudes, encouragement, and environment you provide help shape not just your child’s soccer experience, but also their overall development as confident, resilient individuals.
As a parent, you can help by:
- Focusing on effort, enjoyment, and learning instead of results.
- Encouraging balance between soccer, school, rest, and other activities.
- Supporting safe practices (hydration, concussion awareness, proper rest).
- Modelling respect for referees, coaches, opponents, and teammates.
What Can Parents Expect at Each Stage of Grassroots Development/programming?
Active Start: U4-U6
- Play-based activities that develop movement skills.
- No formal competition - the focus is on fun and discovery.
FUNDAMENTALS: U6-U9
- Introduction to technical skills like dribbling, passing and shooting.
- Small-sided games (3v3, 4v4 & 5v5) to maximize touches and decision-making.
LEARN TO TRAIN: U10-U13
- More structured training and small-sided games (7v7 & 9v9).
- Development of teamwork, game awareness/understanding and further skill development.