Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards

Designed to create the best possible learning and development environment for young players in Canada. The Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards are mandated across the country and are based on Soccer for Life’s Long-Term Athlete Development and Canada Soccer’s Lond-Term Player Development as well as a global best practice while considering the realities of Canadian soccer.

These Standards have become mandatory as of the 2026 Outdoor Playing Season and affect all age groups from U4 to U13.

For more information, please click here.

Resources for Grassroots Standards: https://www.ontariosoccer.net/page/show/9043671-grassroots-soccer-resources-building-the-future-of-the-sport

Long-Term Player Development

What is LTPD?

A player-centered approach to soccer development. Instead of treating young players like “adults”, it tailors training, competition, and expectations to their physical, mental, and emotional stage of development.

Key Goals

1)    Create fun, safe, and inclusive environments

2)    Prioritize skill development over early results

3)    Support long-term athlete health and retention

4)    Ensure pathways for all players – recreational, competitive, and high-performance

Why LTPD Matters

For Players:

·       More touches on the ball = better opportunity for skill development

·       Reduced risk of burnout and injuries

·       Confidence grows through achievable challenges

For Parents

·       Clear expectations of what soccer should look like at every stage

·       Assurance that the focus is on safe, healthy development

For Coaches & Clubs

·       Evidence-based framework to guide training and competition

·       Support for building environments that align with best practices

Find the Player Development Model here.

For more information and resources, please click here.