Grassroots 
At the community level, grassroots soccer is the foundation of the game. It’s the stage where kids are first introduced to soccer in a fun, safe, and inclusive environment, usually from ages 3 to 7. The goal isn’t competition—it’s to build a love for the game while teaching basic movement, coordination, and teamwork.
Key Features of Grassroots Soccer:
- Age Group
- U4–U7 (ages 3–7)
- Focused entirely on fun and participation rather than competition
- Format
- Festival Format - small groups practicing different drills and sessions
- Each practice ends with small-sided games (3v3, 4v4, 5v5) on mini fields.
- No goalkeepers at the youngest ages.
- Equal playing time for everyone.
- Coaching & Volunteers
- Run by parent volunteers, with practice plans provided by the LSA (Canada Soccer Association’s Long Term Player Development (LTPD) and the Preferred Training Model)
- Coaches encourage fun, teamwork, and basic skill development.
- Uniforms & Gear
- Every child gets a Tim Hortons–branded jersey, shorts, and socks (a big highlight for kids!).
- They also get a ball and medal at the end of the season.
- Season
- Indoor Season - November to February
- Outdoor Season - May-June
- One practice per week
Benefits of Timbit Soccer:
- Introduces kids to soccer in a fun, non-competitive way.
- Builds basic skills: dribbling, kicking, passing, running, balance, teamwork.
- Creates a positive first sports experience, helping kids fall in love with the game.
- Involves the whole family in community activities.
In the LTPD model, this age group is referred to as “Active Start”. For more information on the LTPD, please refer to https://www.canadasoccer.com/play-landing/canada-soccer-pathway/
Alberta Soccer Association also provides the Preferred Training Method with additional information
for the various age groups: https://canadasoccer.com/wp-content/uploads/resources/Pathway/EN/CanadaSoccerPathway_CoachsToolKit_ActiveStart_EN.pdf
BRSA - Coed
Youth Coed Outdoor Soccer is a fun and inclusive program for players of all skill levels. Designed to promote teamwork, confidence, and physical activity, this non-competitive program focuses on learning the game in a positive and supportive environment. With equal playing time, volunteer coaches, and an emphasis on sportsmanship and enjoyment, it’s the perfect way for young athletes to stay active, make friends, and develop a love for soccer.
Player Development
Our Player Development philosophy focuses on helping every athlete grow both on and off the field. Through age-appropriate training, positive coaching, and meaningful game experience, players build strong technical skills, game understanding, confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong love for soccer. We prioritize development over results, ensuring each player is challenged, supported, and encouraged at every stage of their journey.
Soccer Skills:
- Dribbling
- Passing
- Shooting
- Defending
- Positioning and game awareness
Team Environment
We are committed to creating a positive, safe, and supportive team environment where every player feels valued and included. Our teams focus on respect, communication, effort, and encouragement — helping players build friendships, confidence, and leadership skills while enjoying the game. Through teamwork and good sportsmanship, players learn important life lessons that extend beyond the soccer field.
Physical & Mental Benefits
Participants will:
- Improve fitness, endurance, and coordination
- Learn discipline and commitment
- Build resilience and self-confidence
- Develop problem-solving and decision-making skills
Program Values
Our program is built on the following core values:
- Fun & Enjoyment – Soccer should be something players look forward to every week.
- Respect & Sportsmanship – For teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, and the game.
- Inclusion – Every player belongs and deserves the opportunity to participate and grow.
- Development – Focusing on learning, improvement, and confidence-building at every stage.
- Teamwork – Working together, supporting one another, and celebrating effort.
- Positive Coaching – Encouragement, patience, and guidance in a safe environment.
These values guide everything we do — from practices and games to how we treat one another on and off the field.
Who Should Join?
Coed Soccer is ideal for:
- New players learning the basics
- Returning players building confidence
- Those looking for fun, fitness, and friendship
- Anyone who loves the game
Want to know more about our BRSA - COED program or registration?
Contact us at technical@leducsoccer.ca
emsa community - non tiered (U09 Girls and U11 Girls)
EMSA Community - Non Tiered is designed to give young female athletes a fun, safe, and supportive environment to learn and enjoy the game. The program emphasizes skill development, teamwork, confidence, and sportsmanship while providing opportunities for players of all experience levels to participate. With volunteer coaches, regular practices, and weekly games, it’s a great way for girls to stay active, make friends, and develop a lifelong love for soccer.
Program Focus
- Inclusive Participation: Every player gets the chance to be involved, learn the game, and enjoy being part of a team.
- Skill Development: Children learn the basics of soccer — dribbling, passing, shooting, defending, and teamwork — at a pace that suits them.
- Fun and Enjoyment: The emphasis is on building confidence, making friends, and loving the game.
Team Environment
Players experience a supportive team culture where:
- Respect for teammates, coaches, and opponents is encouraged
- Fair play and sportsmanship are valued
- Collaboration, cooperation, and inclusion are emphasized
Benefits for Players
Players in our soccer programs gain much more than just soccer skills. They develop confidence, teamwork, and leadership, while improving physical fitness, coordination, and agility. Through a supportive and fun environment, players also learn sportsmanship, communication, and problem-solving skills that extend beyond the field. Above all, they have the chance to make friends, enjoy the game, and build a lifelong love of soccer.
- Physical activity and fitness
- Social development and friendships
- Confidence and self-esteem
- Understanding of teamwork and sportsmanship
Who Should Join
This program is ideal for:
- Children new to soccer
- Players who want to play in a low-pressure environment
- Youth looking to have fun, stay active, and make friends
EMSA community Tiered (U13 Boys/Girls and up)
The EMSA Community Tiered Youth Soccer program is built for players who are ready to take the next step in their soccer journey. It offers a higher level of play than recreational soccer while keeping the experience positive, balanced, and age-appropriate.
Players train in a more structured setting, learning not only how to improve their technical skills, but also how to think, move, and compete as part of a team. The focus is on growth — growing confidence, growing ability, and growing a deeper understanding of the game.
How Players Grow
In youth tiered soccer, players grow by being challenged at the appropriate level for their skills and experience. Through structured practices, competitive games, and skilled coaching, players improve their technical abilities, tactical understanding, and decision-making. They also develop important life skills such as teamwork, communication, resilience, and leadership. By competing in a supportive yet challenging environment, players gain confidence, a stronger work ethic, and a deeper love for the game.
Participants will work on:
- Stronger ball control and passing
- Improved shooting and defensive techniques
- Better positioning and decision-making
- Increased fitness and coordination
At the same time, they develop important personal qualities such as leadership, responsibility, communication, and respect.
Team Experience
Players learn what it means to commit to their
- Teammates
- Show up prepared
- Compete with integrity
Games are challenging and exciting, but always supported by coaches who prioritize learning, encouragement, and sportsmanship.
Balanced Competition
Our youth tiered soccer program is designed to provide competitive play while maintaining a focus on player development and enjoyment. Teams are formed based on skill and experience to ensure matches are challenging yet fair, giving players the opportunity to grow their abilities, learn teamwork, and experience healthy competition. While results matter, equal emphasis is placed on sportsmanship, effort, and building confidence, creating a positive environment where players can thrive both on and off the field.
- Push themselves
- Learn from mistakes
- Celebrate improvement — not just results
Program Purpose
Our goal is to create confident, motivated players who enjoy the game, support one another, and continue developing their skills in a healthy, positive environment.
Want to know more about our Community - Futsal program or registration?
Contact us at technical@leducsoccer.ca
Black gold FC
This stream is split by gender into Boys & Girls teams. This stream is suited to those who have played Soccer previously and are looking to commit to it being a primary sport. Placements in this stream are subject to evaluations prior to the season start date. This is a 10 month commitment and does not require an evaluation prior to Outdoor unless determined in advance.
This program tentatively has one game per week & two practices a week for U8-12 & one game, two practices & 1 strength & conditioning practice per week for U13-17. Practice schedules are determined by the Technical Director & Board of Directors. Game locations are to be determined. Teams play in the Edmonton Minor Soccer Association League (EMSA) Club Tiers 1 through 3.
Head over to Black Gold FC Website for more information. Black Gold FC : Powered by TeamLinkt
What Is Youth Club Soccer?
Youth Club Soccer is a competitive, team-based soccer program designed for players who want to develop their skills at a higher level. Club soccer goes beyond recreational play, offering more structured training, certified coaching, and opportunities to compete against teams from other clubs or communities.
Key Features of Club Soccer:
- Player Development Focus - Training emphasizes technical skills, tactical understanding, teamwork, and physical fitness.
- Season Commitment - Typically includes multiple practices per week and regular league games or tournaments.
- Qualified Coaching - Coaches often hold certifications and follow age-appropriate development guidelines. COMING SOON
- Competitive Play - Teams are formed by skill level and age, and compete against other club teams in leagues or festivals.
- Travel Expectations - Games may involve travel to nearby towns or cities, depending on the league or competition level.
Who Is It For?
Youth Club Soccer is ideal for players who:
- Are passionate about soccer and want to grow in a more competitive environment
- Are ready for a higher level of commitment (time, effort, and focus)
- Want to be challenged and improve with the guidance of experienced coaches
Still Not Sure if Club Soccer Is Right for You?
That's okay! Club soccer isn’t the only path. Leduc Soccer offers may other programs for those who want a more relaxed or skill-building experience.
Developmental
DEVELOPMENTAL includes teams in U8-U19. These age groups can be broken down into the following three sub groups:
FUNdamentals (U9)
Learn to Train (U11)
Training to Train (U13-U19)
FUNdamentals (U9)
Allows children to develop their movement ABCs— agility, balance, coordination, and speed—and learn the basics of the game while emphasizing fun, cooperation, and maximum time on the ball. The players are now introduced to league play with the introduction of referees as well.
Game Format:
– 7 vs 7 (outdoor and indoor)
– outdoor: 60 minutes (2 x 30 minute halves)
– indoor: 50 minutes (2 x 25 minute halves)
Learn to Train (U11)
This “golden age of learning,” when children become less self-centered and are more able to reflect on their actions and learn from mistakes, provides an optimal window for further development of skills. The focus is on learning by doing, building a larger repertoire of soccer movements and teaching the basic principles of play in a fun and challenging environment.
Game Format:
– 7 vs 7 (indoor)
– 9 vs 9 (outdoor
– outdoor: 70 minutes (2 x 35 minute halves)
– indoor: 50 minutes (2 x 25 minute halves)
Training to Train (U13-U19)
The onset of the adolescent growth spurt for most kids during this stage is an ideal time for endurance
training. Players are also introduced to concepts like mental preparation, goal setting, and coping with winning and losing while learning more advanced soccer skills, including position-specific techniques.
Game Format:
– 6 vs 6 (indoor)
– 11 vs 11 (outdoor)
– outdoor: 80 minutes (U13 and U15), 90 minutes (U17 and U19)
– indoor: 50 minutes (2 x 25 minute halves)
More detailed information regarding the Canada Soccer Long Term Player Development model can be accessed HERE