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U17 PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Players Born 2009 & 2010
The U17 stage supports players as they approach the transition toward advanced competition and lifelong participation in the game. Athletes at this age are capable of higher training loads, more complex tactical understanding, and increased self-management. Weyburn Soccer’s U17 program is science-informed and aligned with Canada Soccer’s Train to Train stage, ensuring development remains intentional, challenging, and player-centred.
PROGRAM OPTIONS
U17 Community Soccer
The U17 Community program is designed for players who want to continue playing competitively while balancing school, other sports, and life commitments.
Format – Community
1 training session per week (90 minutes)
1 game day per week
Coed programming where appropriate
Teams will compete against other rural communities, with some travel required during the season.
U17 Competitive Soccer (celtic Program)
The U17 Competitive program is designed for players seeking high-commitment training and competition in a performance-focused but development-driven environment.
Format – Competitive
2–3 training sessions per week
Structured league play (including Forge Spring Soccer League where applicable)
Friendly matches and tournaments at the discretion of the coaching staff
Teams are encouraged to enter 11-a-side Provincials, where appropriate
At U17, one competitive team will be formed. Evaluations are conducted by the Technical Director and coaching staff.
If a player is not selected, they will be offered a place in the U17 Community program, and families will receive a refund of the difference between competitive and community registration packages.
WHAT WE’RE DEVELOPING (THE “WHY”)
At the U17 stage, the focus is on:
Consistency in technical execution
Tactical awareness and decision-making
Physical readiness and injury-aware training
Leadership, accountability, and resilience
WHAT COACHES NEED TO COACH (U17 COACHING BEHAVIOURS)
Coaches will:
Challenge players tactically and mentally
Encourage ownership of development
Support leadership and professionalism
Manage training load responsibly
Use competition as a learning tool
U17 FOUR CORNERS OF DEVELOPMENT
| Technical | Physical | Psychological | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution under pressure | Strength & endurance | Confidence | Leadership |
| Tactical application | Match fitness | Focus | Communication |
| Combination play | Injury-aware training | Resilience | Accountability |
| Game management | Athletic performance | Growth mindset | Sportsmanship |
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATIONS (U17)
Canada Soccer – Long-Term Player Development
https://canadasoccer.com/coach/long-term-player-development/Physical Literacy Canada
https://physicalliteracy.caSport for Life – LTAD
https://sportforlife.ca/physical-literacy/UEFA Grassroots & Youth Development
https://www.uefa.com/insideuefa/football-development/grassroots/