Northumberland United Developmental and Rep Soccer Program

Developmental and Competitive Soccer is the next stage or level up from the House League Program. Players who want a higher level of training through independent practice night(s) as well as one game per week are highly encouraged to try out for their age specific team. Developmental soccer starting at U8 divisions up to U12 focuses on skill development, game sense, and individual & team achievement. It is not simply for players who demonstrate a high level of skill or talent.  It is intended for those players who have a passion for the game, are committed to practicing, and want to play in an environment that fosters skill development & achievement, rather than simply winning. Rep soccer starts at U13 up to U18 and still focuses on technical skill development but more time is spent learning the finer points of team formation and tactical skills.

 Philosophy

To develop each child’s soccer skills in order to increase his or her self-confidence and love of soccer before introducing competitive games and leagues through maximum participation, emphasis on learning, focus on fun and coaching positively.

Maximum Participation

To require that coaches encourage every player to actively participate in each soccer session and to have equal participation over practices and games.

Emphasis on Learning

To maintain an emphasis on learning rather than winning. Winning should be the product of learning. Teach the necessary skills and the players will eventually win.

Focus on Fun

To foster an understanding that keeping soccer fun will develop a long-lasting love of the game and produce high participation at a high performance level.

Coaching Positively

To provide training in progressive soccer coaching techniques that will cause each coach to make an extra effort to understand and communicate, and to give positive help, support and training to all players.

How do I get on a Developmental/Rep team?

 In order to be placed on a Developmental team, potential players must attend 2 out of 3 tryouts. Tryouts are held in September each year. While a high level of talent and skill are not the only requirement to play developmental soccer, it will be a calculated assessment in the evaluation process. Other indicators for placement on a team will be the athlete’s coach-ability, drive, and determination, as well as their commitment to always try their best for their team and for their personal development.

What is the time commitment for Developmental/Rep Soccer?

The time commitment for Developmental soccer is greater than what would be expected for recreational soccer players.  Developmental players can expect to practice at least once a week and play a game a week. They will also be expected to participate in local tournaments chosen by the coach.

The season for Developmental players will run typically from the end of May (practices will likely early May depending on field availability) through to the end of August.

What is the cost to play Developmental/Rep soccer?

 The cost to play Developmental/Rep soccer is approximately $450 to $650.  The price is determined by how much team sponsorship and how much fundraising the team is willing to commit to. On average teams try to find $1500 in sponsorship.

Costs are a full kit (jersey, shorts, etc.), insurance, Ontario Soccer registration fee, festival/tournament entry fees, field maintenance and lining, referee costs, administrative overhead, player book, team bond and any coaching courses and equipment bought by the team.

The cost of the program is split into 3 payment installments ($250 at end of October, $150 in January and the 3^rd in May). These installments are non-refundable.