U9 PROGRAM OVERVIEW (PLAYERS BORN 2017 & 2018)

The U9 age group is a key stage in a player’s development. At this age, children are ready to refine fundamental skills, begin understanding simple team concepts, and make decisions in game-like environments. Weyburn Soccer’s U9 program is science-informed and aligned with Canada Soccer’s Grassroots Standards and FUNdamentals stage, ensuring development is age-appropriate, enjoyable, and player-centred.

New this year, with the introduction of the Forge Spring Soccer League, U9 players now have two program options: Community or Competitive. Families may choose the pathway that best fits their child’s interest, readiness, and time commitment. Players are not required to participate in both programs.

PROGRAM OPTIONS

U9 Community Soccer

The U9 Community program is designed for players who want to enjoy soccer, develop skills, and play games in a fun, supportive environment without increased training or travel demands.

Format – Community

• 1 training session per week (60 minutes)

• 1 game day per week

Training sessions are game-based and station-oriented, emphasizing skill development, confidence, and enjoyment. Game days allow players to apply what they’ve learned in a positive, development-focused setting.

U9 Competitive Soccer (Celtic Program)

The U9 Competitive program is designed for players who are ready for increased training frequency and structured competition while still prioritizing long-term development over short-term results.

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 balanced competition between rural communities while maintaining a development-first approach.

WHAT WE’RE DEVELOPING (THE “WHY”)

At the U9 stage, Canada Soccer’s FUNdamentals model emphasizes:

• Continued development of physical literacy

• Strong technical foundations (dribbling, passing, receiving, shooting)

• Decision-making through small-sided games

• Confidence, creativity, and enjoyment

Training and competition are designed to challenge players appropriately while protecting their love for the game.

WHAT COACHES NEED TO COACH (U9 COACHING BEHAVIOURS)

U9 coaching focuses on teaching the game through play, not over-instruction.

Coaches will:

• Use game-based and small-sided activities

• Encourage players to solve problems rather than giving answers

• Reinforce simple cues: “find space” “support” “pressure” “turn”

• Rotate positions and roles to support learning

• Focus feedback on effort, decisions, and improvement

• Use games as a learning tool, not a scoreboard

U9 FOUR CORNERS OF DEVELOPMENT CHART

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATIONS (U9 PROGRAM)

The U9 program is grounded in sport science, child development research, and Canada Soccer’s Grassroots Standards. Families interested in learning more about our approach can explore the following resources:

Canada Soccer – FUNdamentals

https://canadasoccer.com/coach/grassroots/
https://canadasoccer.com/coach/long-term-player-development/

Physical Literacy & Child Development

https://physicalliteracy.ca
https://sportforlife.ca/physical-literacy/

Coaching Through Play

https://www.ukcoaching.org/resources/topics/children
https://www.uefa.com/insideuefa/football-development/grassroots/