Springwater United Soccer Academy
SHAPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF TALENT!

Academy Foundation Stage

(Ages U9) Girls & Boys

Building Skills, Confidence, and a Love for the Game!

Our U9 program is designed in alignment with Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) principles and the Ontario Soccer Grassroots Standards, ensuring players continue to develop in a fun, player-centered, and age-appropriate environment. At this stage, the focus remains on building strong technical foundations while encouraging creativity, confidence, and a lifelong enjoyment of the game.

Players develop essential soccer skills including ball control, dribbling, passing, receiving, and striking, while also improving agility, balance, coordination, speed, and overall physical literacy. Training sessions are designed to maximize touches on the ball and provide meaningful opportunities for learning through play, allowing players to develop their skills in realistic game situations.

Consistent with Ontario Soccer's Grassroots philosophy, the program utilizes small-sided games and guided discovery methods to enhance decision-making, problem-solving, and Game IQ. Players are encouraged to be creative, take risks, and develop an understanding of basic attacking and defending principles in a supportive environment where development is prioritized over results.

The U9 program also places a strong emphasis on character development, sportsmanship, teamwork, respect, and self-confidence. Coaches foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere where every player feels valued and motivated to learn. By focusing on the holistic development of the child, the program provides an important bridge between grassroots soccer and our Academy High Performance Stage, preparing players with the technical, physical, tactical, and social skills needed for future success.

​

​