Academy Program

At the competitive level clubs enter their teams in the Pyramid of play. This system is structured upon team progression and while it provides a clear delineation of the different levels of play, it does not mandate any special requirements for a club or team to enter the highest levels. As long as a team wins, they are eligible to advance. Coaching qualifications and technical programs are not subject to any mandatory review. Our teams are smaller to facilitate growth through involvement not indifference. We also help athletes set clear goals and measure athletes on those goals through our extensive evaluation process. If an athlete is not progressing to meet his own goals we meet with parents to try and facilitate their development.

 

High Standards

We have set high standards which we are audited for by the Soccer Academy Alliance of Canada (SAAC). The following are some of the major standards;

• Each team has a High Level Coaching Staff. Canadian National ‘A’ or ‘B’ License USSF ‘A’ or ‘B’ License, NSCAA National or Premier Diploma or UEFA ‘A’, ‘B’ or Pro License.
• Specialized Goalkeeper training at least 1 day per week from an Ontario Soccer Association Goalkeeper with a Senior License Diploma.
• Athletic Therapist on staff to facilitate injury prevention and treatment.
• 3:1 Training Time / Playing Time ratio over a full season.
• Strength and Conditioning Coach on staff
• Staff undergo interview and screening process every 2 years. Staff undergo police record checks every 2 years.
• Access to Indoor and Outdoor fields throughout the year.
• Access to a Board Room with IT capabilities for game analysis.
• Seeking the highest competition in the province through exhibition games with the best teams.

 

Academy Goals & Dedication

Athletes are expected to be dedicated to the Academy system. Athletes will be asked to travel to Hamilton to attend some games and others will be hosted in our home field in London, Ontario. Our performance goal is to ensure 90% of players from the Academy (with 3+ years enrollment) are playing Professional or Collegiate soccer after they graduate. We also facilitate this goal by promoting students and helping them discover ways in which they can promote themselves.