U5 Program Overview (Players born 2021 & 2022)
Our U5 program is built on a simple idea: young children learn best through play. Weyburn Soccer’s U5 sessions are science-informed and aligned with Canada Soccer’s Grassroots Standards and Active Start guidance, which emphasize fun, movement, coordination, and lots of touches on the ball in a safe, positive environment.
Format
Once per week
45 minutes
Station-based training (small groups rotate through multiple short activities)
This station model matches how 4–5 year olds learn: short, varied activities help keep attention, increase engagement, and maximize ball touches and movement.
What we’re developing (the “why”)
Canada Soccer’s Active Start approach recommends sessions that blend general movement, coordination, soccer technique, and small-sided games—not long lines, not lectures, and not “laps.”
At this age, we’re also building physical literacy—fundamental movement skills that support confidence and lifelong participation in sport.
What coaches need to coach (U5 coaching behaviours)
U5 coaching is about leading play, not “over-coaching.”
Coaches will:
Keep activities short, fun, and changing often (quick rotations, quick demos)
Use simple cues: “tiny touches” “big touch” “freeze” “find space”
Create one ball per child whenever possible (more touches = more learning)
Prioritize encouragement and confidence (celebrate effort, not perfection)
Avoid lines, long talks, and complex tactics (kids learn by doing)
Finish with a fun small-sided game so kids experience “real soccer” through play
U5 Four Corners of Development Chart
| Technical | Physical | Psychological | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ball familiarity (lots of touches) | Running, stopping, starting | Confidence to try | Taking turns / sharing space |
| Dribbling (soft touches) | Jumping, landing, balance | Joy and love of the game | Listening to a coach (simple cues) |
| Turning (change direction) | Coordination (feet/arms together) | Curiosity and creativity | Playing with others (cooperate) |
| Kicking to targets | Agility (move in many directions) | Resilience (mistakes are OK) | Positive sport behaviour (kindness) |
| Stopping the ball | Fundamental movement skills foundation | Attention through short tasks/rotations | Respect (teammates, coaches) |
Research & Development Foundations (U5 Program)
Our U5 program is informed by sport science research, child development principles, and Canada Soccer’s Grassroots Standards. Families can explore the sources below to better understand how and why our youngest programs are designed.
Canada Soccer – Grassroots & Active Start
Canada Soccer – Grassroots Standards
https://canadasoccer.com/coach/grassroots/
(Outlines age-appropriate training formats, session length, and player-centred coaching)Canada Soccer – Active Start Stage (U4–U6)
https://canadasoccer.com/coach/long-term-player-development/
(Explains why fun, movement, and exploration are prioritized over instruction)
Physical Literacy & Child Development
Physical Literacy Canada
https://physicalliteracy.ca
(Research on fundamental movement skills, confidence, and lifelong sport participation)Sport for Life – Physical Literacy & LTAD
https://sportforlife.ca/physical-literacy/
(Why early sport should focus on movement, not performance)
Learning Through Play & Coaching Young Children
UK Coaching – Coaching Children Under 6
https://www.ukcoaching.org/resources/topics/children
(Evidence supporting short activities, variety, and play-based learning)UEFA Grassroots Coaching Principles
https://www.uefa.com/insideuefa/football-development/grassroots/
(Global best practice for coaching young players through games and exploration)