The excitement is building as Sefa Soccer Academy continues preparations for the ASL Spring season, set to kick off on April 6! With new teams forming and exhibition matches in full swing, our young athletes are getting valuable game experience, sharpening their skills, and, most importantly—having a blast on the field.

One of the most crucial aspects of youth soccer development is ensuring that kids play in the right game format for their age. We we follow the Long Term Player Development model (LTPD) and international best practices to ensure every child progresses in a way that supports their growth, skill development, and love for the game.

Game Formats by Age Group: Developing Players the Right Way

  • U7–U8: Jamboree Games (4v4)

    The best way for young players to develop is by getting as many touches on the ball as possible. That’s why our U7 and U8 teams play in a Jamboree-style format, featuring four short 10–12 minute games in one day. With only four players per team, each child is actively involved in the game, allowing them to improve their technique while having fun.

  • U9–U10: First Divisional Games (7v7)

    As players grow, they transition from Jamboree-style matches to more structured soccer. The U9 and U10 teams now play 7v7 games, introducing them to team formations, passing patterns, and positional awareness while still keeping the game dynamic and engaging.

  • U11–U12: Continued Progression (8v8)

    At this stage, players start experiencing larger fields and more tactical play. The 8v8 format builds on the skills developed in 7v7 games, emphasizing movement, teamwork, and game strategy.

  • U13: Preparing for Full-Field Soccer (9v9)

    Before moving to the traditional 11v11 game, U13 players compete in 9v9 matches, helping them adjust to the larger playing area and more complex tactical play. This ensures a smooth transition to full-size soccer, allowing players to gradually adapt to the demands of the game.

Exhibition Matches: A Strong Start to the Season

This past weekend, our teams had their first taste of competition in their respective formats:

✅ Our 2017-born boys played their first-ever divisional 7v7 match! They showed great enthusiasm, teamwork, and determination as they took the next step in their soccer journey. Watching them embrace the challenge was incredible, and their development is already evident.

✅ Our 2015-born team played their first 8v8 match! Stepping onto a larger field with more teammates was a big milestone for these players, and they handled it brilliantly. The ASL is a highly competitive league, and we continuously assess player development and adjust our training programs to ensure each child reaches their full potential.

All Sefa Soccer Academy Games are Filmed with VEO Cameras!

At Sefa Soccer Academy, we believe in helping young players improve by providing the best resources available. That’s why we film all of our games using the VEO camera system!

📹 What does this mean for our players and families?

  • Parents and players can rewatch their games anytime to see their progress and relive the excitement.
  • Grandparents, relatives, and friends who can’t attend games in person can still watch from anywhere in the world, ensuring every child gets the support they deserve!
  • Coaches use the footage for game analysis, identifying areas for improvement and making adjustments to training sessions.
  • We hold game video analysis days, where players review their performances with coaches, learning valuable lessons to elevate their game.

This technology gives Sefa Soccer Academy a competitive edge, ensuring that our kids soccer programs in Burnaby, New Westminster, and Coquitlam offer the best possible development experience.

Spring Season is Almost Here!

With just a few weeks left until the ASL Spring season kicks off on April 6, our teams are pushing forward with high-intensity training sessions, tactical adjustments, and more exhibition games.

At Sefa Soccer Academy, we are committed to providing top-tier kids soccer programs in Burnaby, New Westminster, and Coquitlam. Through structured kids soccer training, competitive matches, and a focus on long-term development, we help young players gain confidence, improve their skills, and develop a true passion for soccer.

Want to follow your child’s team this season? Check out the full game schedule here:

👉 Academy Soccer League (ASL) Games Schedule

Stay tuned for more updates as we gear up for the ASL Spring season opener—our teams are ready to compete, grow, and shine on the field! ⚽