U7 PROGRAM OVERVIEW (PLAYERS BORN 2019 & 2020)
Our U7 program builds on the foundation of play while beginning to introduce simple team concepts and game understanding. Weyburn Soccer’s U7 sessions are science-informed and aligned with Canada Soccer’s Grassroots Standards and FUNdamentals stage, which emphasize fun, creativity, coordination, and learning the game through play in a positive, age-appropriate environment.
At this age, players are curious, energetic, and ready to explore soccer more deeply — but they still learn best by doing, not by being told.
FORMAT
1 training session per week
60 minutes
Station-based training (small groups rotating through activities)
1 weekly game day
Training sessions focus on skill development and learning through play, while game days allow players to apply those skills in a fun, game-realistic setting.
The station-based model keeps players active, engaged, and learning by providing:
More ball touches
More decision-making opportunities
Less standing and waiting
WHAT WE’RE DEVELOPING (THE “WHY”)
Canada Soccer’s FUNdamentals stage recommends an approach that blends:
Fundamental movement skills
Soccer-specific techniques
Small-sided games
Simple decision-making
This stage continues to build physical literacy while introducing basic soccer habits such as spacing, attacking the ball, and transitioning between attacking and defending — all through games.
The focus remains on enjoyment and confidence, ensuring players associate soccer with fun and success.
WHAT COACHES NEED TO COACH (U7 COACHING BEHAVIOURS)
U7 coaching is about guiding learning through play, not controlling it.
Coaches will:
Use short, varied activities with frequent rotations
Ask simple guided questions instead of giving long instructions
Use clear, simple cues: “find space” “turn” “pass or dribble” “defend the ball”
Encourage creativity and problem-solving
Ensure maximum ball contact for every player
Keep feedback positive and effort-focused
Use game days to reinforce learning, not results
Tactics, positions, and outcomes are secondary to learning how to play.
U7 FOUR CORNERS OF DEVELOPMENT CHART
| Technical | Physical | Psychological | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dribbling with control | Running, stopping, starting | Confidence to try new skills | Team participation |
| Passing and receiving | Balance and coordination | Enjoyment and motivation | Sharing and cooperation |
| Turning and shielding | Agility and movement patterns | Decision-making | Communication |
| Shooting on goal | Speed and spatial awareness | Resilience (mistakes are learning) | Respect for others |
| Ball control in games | Continued physical literacy | Focus during short tasks | Sportsmanship |
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATIONS (U7 PROGRAM)
Our U7 program is informed by sport science research, child development principles, and Canada Soccer’s Grassroots Standards. Families who wish to learn more about the foundations of our approach can explore the resources below.
CANADA SOCCER – GRASSROOTS & FUNDAMENTALS
Canada Soccer – Grassroots Standards
https://canadasoccer.com/coach/grassroots/
(Age-appropriate formats, training design, and player-centred environments)
Canada Soccer – FUNdamentals Stage (U7–U9)
https://canadasoccer.com/coach/long-term-player-development/
(Why fun, repetition, and skill development are prioritized at this age)
PHYSICAL LITERACY & CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Physical Literacy Canada
https://physicalliteracy.ca
(Foundational movement skills and confidence building)
Sport for Life – Physical Literacy & LTAD
https://sportforlife.ca/physical-literacy/
(How physical literacy supports long-term sport participation)
LEARNING THROUGH PLAY & COACHING CHILDREN
UK Coaching – Coaching Children
https://www.ukcoaching.org/resources/topics/children
(Why play-based, child-centred coaching works best)
UEFA Grassroots Coaching Principles
https://www.uefa.com/insideuefa/football-development/grassroots/
(International best practice for grassroots soccer)