U13 PROGRAM OVERVIEW (PLAYERS BORN 2013 & 2014)

The U13 stage represents a significant step in a player’s development. At this age, players are ready for increased physical demands, more complex decision-making, and a deeper understanding of the game. Weyburn Soccer’s U13 program is science-informed and aligned with Canada Soccer’s Long-Term Player Development model, ensuring players are challenged appropriately while continuing to prioritize enjoyment, confidence, and long-term growth.

PROGRAM OPTIONS

U13 Community Soccer (Coed)

The U13 Community program is designed for players who want to continue developing and competing in a positive, inclusive environment while representing Weyburn in regional play.

Format – Community

• 1 training session per week (90 minutes)

• 1 game day per week

• Coed program

Teams will play games against other rural communities, including neighbouring centres. Families should expect that travel will be required a few times during the season to support meaningful competition.

Sessions focus on refining technical skills, introducing team principles, and improving game understanding through small-sided and game-based activities, while maintaining an enjoyable and supportive environment.

U13 Competitive Soccer (Celtic Program)

The U13 Competitive program is designed for players who are ready for increased commitment, training volume, and structured competition in a development-first environment.

Format – Competitive

• 2–3 training sessions per week

• Participation in the Forge Spring Soccer League

• League play across 4 weekends (2 in May, 2 in June)

• Additional friendly matches and tournaments may be entered at the discretion of the coaching staff

The Forge Spring Soccer League provides meaningful competition against other rural communities while maintaining balanced teams and a player-centred approach.

WHAT WE’RE DEVELOPING (THE “WHY”)

At the U13 stage, Canada Soccer emphasizes:

• Refining technical skills under pressure and at speed

• Developing game understanding and tactical awareness

• Supporting physical development during growth and maturation

• Building confidence, resilience, and accountability

WHAT COACHES NEED TO COACH (U13 COACHING BEHAVIOURS)

U13 coaching focuses on connecting individual skill to team play.

Coaches will:

• Use game-based and positional activities to teach principles

• Encourage players to read cues and make decisions

• Introduce simple team concepts such as support, width, depth, pressure, and recovery

• Manage training loads appropriately during growth phases

• Provide feedback that supports learning, confidence, and accountability

U13 FOUR CORNERS OF DEVELOPMENT CHART

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATIONS (U13 PROGRAM)

The Weyburn Soccer U13 program is designed using sport science research, growth and maturation principles, and Canada Soccer’s Long-Term Player Development framework. Families who wish to better understand how and why our U13 programs are structured can explore the resources below.

CANADA SOCCER – LEARN TO TRAIN / TRAIN TO TRAIN

Canada Soccer – Long-Term Player Development
https://canadasoccer.com/coach/long-term-player-development/
(Guidance on age-appropriate training volume, competition formats, and development priorities)

Canada Soccer – Grassroots Standards
https://canadasoccer.com/coach/grassroots/
(Player-centred environments and best practice for youth development)

PHYSICAL LITERACY & YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Physical Literacy Canada
https://physicalliteracy.ca
(Ongoing development of movement skills, confidence, and physical competence)

Sport for Life – Physical Literacy & LTAD
https://sportforlife.ca/physical-literacy/
(Supporting development through growth and maturation stages)

COACHING & LEARNING THROUGH PLAY

UK Coaching – Coaching Children & Youth
https://www.ukcoaching.org/resources/topics/children
(Evidence-based coaching approaches for youth sport)

UEFA Grassroots Coaching Principles
https://www.uefa.com/insideuefa/football-development/grassroots/
(International best practice for grassroots and youth development)