Soccer development by age has become a crucial focus in youth sports, particularly in regions like British Columbia. The Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) model has an impact on how young athletes progress through various stages of their soccer journey. This approach takes into account the physical characteristics and skill development needs of players at different age groups, aiming to create a pathway for Canadian youth to excel in the sport.

The LTPD model, adopted by BC Soccer, provides a framework to guide young players from their first kicks to advanced competitive levels. It emphasizes the importance of fundamentals and small-sided games for younger age groups, gradually introducing more complex soccer skills as players mature. This structured approach helps coaches and parents to understand how to be good at soccer at each developmental stage, ensuring that youth soccer development programs align with the natural growth and abilities of children. From Coquitlam to Vancouver, this model is shaping the future of soccer development academies across BC.

Understanding Long-Term Player Development (LTPD)

Definition of LTPD

Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) is a comprehensive program for soccer player development that focuses on training, competition, and recovery based on biological age rather than chronological age . This model parallels the developmental stages identified by doctors and psychologists, recognizing that children do not learn in the same way as adults, especially when the learning process involves both intellectual and physical activity [12, 8].

Importance in soccer development

LTPD plays a crucial role in soccer development by providing a framework that guides planning for optimal athlete performance at all stages . It helps identify where a child is today and envisions where they can be in the future with proper guidance . This approach is particularly important in regions like British Columbia, where youth soccer programs in New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver can benefit from a structured developmental pathway.

The LTPD model emphasizes the importance of developing physical literacy before 12 years of age, which forms the foundation for all future sport performance . By focusing on age-appropriate content and methodologies, LTPD optimizes player development at each critical stage in a youth player’s life from 4 to 18 years .

Key principles of LTPD

  1. Stage-based development: LTPD recognizes seven stages of development, each with its own physical and psychological characteristics . These stages include:
    • Active Start (Ages 0-6)
    • FUNdamentals (6U & 8U players)
    • Learn to Train (10U & 12U)
    • Train to Train (14U & 16U)
    • Learn to Compete (18U)
    • Train to Win
    • Soccer for Life [14, 12]
  3. Player-centered approach: LTPD puts the player’s needs front and center, tailoring training, competition, and coaching to their appropriate stage of development [8, 10].
  4. Holistic development: The model supports the physical, social, cognitive, and emotional growth of young players through fun, creative, and imaginative programming .
  5. Skill progression: LTPD focuses on developing fundamental movement skills, ball mastery, and basic foot skills in the early stages, gradually introducing more complex soccer skills and tactical concepts as players mature [12, 14].
  6. Long-term vision: The model works backwards from the goal of having skillful, creative, and intelligent players at 15-18 years of age, focusing on developing the skills and tactical concepts best suited for each developmental stage .
  7. Multi-sport approach: LTPD recognizes that well-rounded, multi-sport athletes have the highest potential to achieve in soccer .
  8. Appropriate competition: The model guides the implementation of appropriate game structures and competition levels for each developmental stage [10, 14].
  9. Coach education: LTPD emphasizes the importance of knowledgeable coaches who can lead safe and effective practices .
  10. Lifelong participation: The model aims to keep players involved in the sport throughout their lives, whether as players, coaches, referees, or club administrators .

By implementing LTPD principles, soccer programs in British Columbia can create an environment where young players not only perform at their best but also have more fun . This approach helps eliminate gaps in the player development system and provides a framework for program alignment from volunteer club coaches to national and professional teams . Ultimately, LTPD gives all players the best chance of success in soccer by tailoring their experience to their developmental needs, fostering a lifelong love for the game.

The LTPD Model in BC Soccer

Overview of the model

The Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) model in BC Soccer is an adaptation of the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model initiated by Canadian Sport Centers . This scientific model respects and utilizes the natural stages of physical, mental, and emotional growth in athletes, providing a structured pathway for player development . The LTPD model aims to promote lifelong enjoyment of physical activity, create a structured player development pathway, describe best practices for elite player development, and foster long-term excellence .

In British Columbia, the LTPD model has become a cornerstone for youth soccer development in cities like New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver. It provides a player-centered approach that offers guidelines for correct training, competition, and recovery based on scientific principles of human development and athlete training, combined with the knowledge of expert coaches .

Stages of development

The LTPD model in BC Soccer recognizes seven distinct stages of development, each with its own physical and psychological characteristics . These stages form the basis for tailoring training, competition, and coaching to the needs of players at each developmental level . The key stages implemented by BC Soccer are:

  1. Active Start (U4-U6): This stage focuses on informal play between adults and children, with no goalkeepers and no competitive games .
  2. Fundamentals (U6-U8 Female/U6-U9 Male): At this stage, the game format includes a goalkeeper or a reduction in goal size . Players take turns in goal, developing basic techniques of ball handling and footwork .
  3. Learn to Train (U8-U11 Female/U9-U12 Male): This stage introduces a goalkeeper in the game format . Players continue to take turns in goal, developing more advanced skills such as ball rolling, over-arm throws, and basic diving techniques .
  4. Train to Train (U11-U15 Female/U12-U16 Male): While not explicitly mentioned in the provided information, this stage typically focuses on more advanced tactical and technical development.
  5. Learn to Compete, Train to Win, and Soccer for Life: These later stages, while part of the overall LTPD model, are not detailed in the provided information for BC Soccer’s implementation.

Implementation in BC

BC Soccer supports and promotes the principles of LTPD and the Grassroots Standards developed by Canada Soccer . The implementation of the LTPD model in BC Soccer includes several key aspects:

  1. Game Formats: BC Soccer has established developmentally appropriate small-sided game formats to support individual player and team development for respective age groups .
  2. Retreat Line: BC Soccer implements a retreat line in the Fundamentals and Learn to Train stages, positioned at the 2/3 line of the field . This encourages players to build up play from the back and develop their decision-making skills.
  3. Team Formation: Members and affiliated clubs are required to form teams from all registrants each year in a manner that prioritizes player development and respects the participation needs of all participants . The recommended team formation process varies by stage, ranging from random or balanced for younger age groups to potentially streamed for older groups.
  4. Coach Education: BC Soccer emphasizes ongoing coach and staff education to ensure the advancement of players through the stages of the Canadian Soccer Association’s Long Term Player Development Pathway .
  5. Club Program Assessment: BC Soccer implements ongoing club program assessments to ensure adherence to the LTPD principles and continuous improvement of youth soccer development programs .
  6. Periodized Player Development: BC Soccer has implemented a grassroots plan of periodized player development programs, aligning with the LTPD model’s emphasis on stage-appropriate training and competition .

By implementing the LTPD model, BC Soccer aims to create an environment where young players in cities like New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver can perform at their best while having more fun . This approach helps eliminate gaps in the player development system and provides a framework for program alignment from volunteer club coaches to national and professional teams, giving all players the best chance of success in soccer.

Active Start (U4-U6)

The Active Start stage, designed for children aged 4 to 6, lays the foundation for a lifelong love of soccer. This crucial phase focuses on introducing young players to the basic elements of the sport in a fun, safe, and enjoyable environment. In cities like New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver, BC Soccer’s implementation of the Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) model ensures that these young athletes receive age-appropriate training and guidance.

Developmental Characteristics

Children in the Active Start stage have unique developmental characteristics that shape their learning experience:

  1. Ego-centric nature: At this age, children are focused primarily on themselves and struggle to see the world from another’s perspective .
  2. Present-focused: They live in the moment, with limited ability to consider past or future events .
  3. Short attention span: On average, they can listen for about 15 seconds and engage in a task for 10-15 minutes .
  4. Active imagination: Children at this stage have vivid imaginations that can be harnessed to enhance their learning experience .
  5. Two-speed operation: They typically operate at either extremely fast or stopped speeds .
  6. Limited spatial awareness: Abstract thinking, such as understanding spatial relations or off-ball movements, is challenging for them .

Key Focus Areas

The Active Start program emphasizes several key areas to ensure holistic development:

  1. Physical literacy: The largest emphasis is on developing fundamental movement skills such as running, jumping, twisting, throwing, and catching .
  2. Technical skills: Basic soccer techniques are introduced, including running with the ball, dribbling, controlling, kicking, and shooting .
  3. Social skills: The program helps children develop cooperation, teamwork, communication, and friendship .
  4. Emotional growth: Creating a positive and enjoyable environment is crucial to foster a love for the sport .
  5. Mental development: Players begin to understand basic game concepts and rules .

Recommended Activities

To support the development of young players in the Active Start stage, the following activities and approaches are recommended:

  1. Fun-focused sessions: All activities should emphasize fun and enjoyment to keep children engaged .
  2. Short, varied activities: Given their limited attention span, activities should be kept short, typically 1-2 minutes in duration .
  3. High ball-to-player ratio: Ideally, each child should have their own ball to maximize touches and engagement .
  4. Parental involvement: Parents or guardians are encouraged to join in and play with their children .
  5. Informal play: No competitive games should be organized at this stage. Instead, adults and children should play together informally .
  6. Skill-building games: Incorporate games that focus on dribbling, ball control, and basic foot skills .
  7. Movement education: Include activities that develop running, jumping, twisting, and other fundamental movements .
  8. Positive reinforcement: Provide frequent praise and encouragement to boost confidence and motivation .
  9. Imaginative activities: Utilize the children’s active imaginations in practice activities .
  10. Multi-sport approach: Encourage participation in a variety of activities, such as swimming and gymnastics, to enhance overall physical literacy .

Coaches and parents in BC’s youth soccer programs should structure their sessions to include a balanced mix of these elements. A typical 45-minute session might be divided equally among general movements, soccer coordination, small-sided games, and soccer technique, all conducted in a fun and interactive environment . By following these guidelines, youth soccer programs in New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver can provide an optimal start to young players’ soccer journeys, setting the stage for their continued development and enjoyment of the sport.

FUNdamentals (U6-U8/U10)

The FUNdamentals stage is crucial for young soccer players in British Columbia, particularly in cities like New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver. This phase focuses on developing essential skills and fostering a love for the game among children aged 6 to 10.

Age-specific objectives

At this stage, coaches aim to create a player-centered learning environment that encourages creativity and self-expression . The primary objective is to make soccer enjoyable, ensuring that children view the ball as a toy and develop a lasting passion for the sport . Coaches should avoid the «3 L’s» — Lines, Laps, and Lectures — and instead focus on fun activities that allow kids to explore their physical abilities .

Children in this age group are beginning to gain more control over their bodies, but they still lack some basic physical abilities required for soccer-specific techniques . As a result, the main focus should be on basic physical and movement education. Coaches should be patient and provide plenty of encouragement, as children are still developing psychologically .

Skill development priorities

  1. Physical development: Introduce basic movement education, focusing on agility, balance, and coordination. Activities should include various movements such as walking, running, starting, stopping, jumping, hopping, rolling, skipping, bending, twisting, reaching, and changing directions .
  2. Technical skills: Emphasis should be placed on developing fundamental soccer skills:
    • Dribbling: Using the inside and outside of the foot, sole of the foot, and laces .
    • Ball control: Stopping the ball with the sole or inside of the foot .
    • Basic turning: Pull back with sole, forward push with lace .
    • Passing: Introduction to basic passing techniques .
    • Shooting: Begin learning how to shoot .
  4. Psychological aspects: Focus on sharing, fair play, parental involvement, and emotional management . The goal is for children to have fun and want to continue playing soccer.
  5. Tactical understanding: Introduce basic concepts such as field boundaries, goal directions, and the idea of moving towards the ball . However, there should be no discussion about positions or complex team concepts at this stage.

As players progress to the U9/U10 age group, they can begin to learn more advanced skills and tactical components:

Small-sided games

Small-sided games play a crucial role in developing young players’ skills and understanding of soccer. These modified versions of the game are designed to be age-appropriate and focus on individual skill development .

Benefits of small-sided games include:

  1. Improved decision-making: Players have to think quicker due to the smaller field size and fewer passing options .
  2. Enhanced technical ability: More repetitions in game-like situations help improve ball control and passing skills .
  3. Better movement: Constant motion is required to get open or help defend, improving overall movement skills .
  4. Improved defense: Players are frequently put into defensive situations, developing determination, effort, and agility .
  5. Increased fitness: The smaller field size ensures constant involvement, pushing players to their limits .

Coaches should structure small-sided games with specific objectives in mind. For U6-U8 players, games should be kept simple, focusing on basic skills and movement. As players progress to U9-U10, more complex tactical elements can be introduced .

By implementing these age-appropriate practices and small-sided games, youth soccer programs in British Columbia can create an environment that nurtures skill development, fosters a love for the game, and lays a strong foundation for future soccer success.

Learn to Train (U8/U11-U11/U12)

The ‘golden age of learning’

The Learn to Train stage, encompassing players aged 8 to 12, is often referred to as the ‘golden age of learning’ in soccer development. This period is crucial for young players in British Columbia, particularly in cities like New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver. Research indicates that the most significant improvements in professionally important sensorimotor cognitive abilities occur between the ages of 11 and 13 . This stage is characterized by rapid cognitive and physical development, making it an ideal time for skill acquisition and refinement.

During this phase, players begin to think in abstract terms and can address hypothetical situations . They develop a more systematic approach to problem-solving, allowing them to meet the demands of the game more thoughtfully. The idea that field space can be successfully covered by several small passes or one properly placed pass starts to make sense to players at this stage . This cognitive growth enables coaches to introduce more complex concepts and strategies.

Technical skill refinement

As players enter the Learn to Train stage, they have typically accumulated four to five years of experience with the sport and have developed some basic skills and ideas about the game . This stage marks a critical period for shaping the technical range and tactical insights of the players. Coaches should focus on refining and expanding the players’ technical abilities.

Key areas of technical development include:

  1. Ball control: Players should be challenged to expand their range of surfaces and textures used for kicking, dribbling, and controlling the ball .
  2. Passing: Emphasis should be placed on purposeful passing towards teammates, encouraging players to control the ball and look for options .
  3. Shooting: Players should be encouraged to shoot when possible, with practice focusing on various distances and angles .
  4. Dribbling: Coaches should introduce basic moves to turn away from pressure and changes in pace and direction .
  5. Heading: Players should begin to learn diverse heading skills, including heading to goal, away from goal, and as a passing technique .

Introduction to tactical concepts

The Learn to Train stage also marks the beginning of more formal tactical instruction. Players at this age are eager to learn and can begin to understand more complex game concepts . Coaches should introduce basic tactical ideas while still emphasizing individual skill development.

Key tactical concepts to introduce include:

  1. Spatial awareness: Players should be taught to understand and utilize space on the field, both in attacking and defending situations .
  2. Combination play: Simple combinations like wall passes and double passes can be introduced at this stage .
  3. Defensive concepts: Basic defensive principles such as recovering the ball when possession is lost and understanding marking should be taught .
  4. Transition play: Players should be encouraged to mentally transition quickly after changes in possession .
  5. Decision-making: Coaches should help players develop a hierarchy of decision-making options, starting with shooting opportunities and progressing through passing and dribbling choices .

In youth soccer programs across British Columbia, coaches should structure their sessions to include a balanced mix of technical skill refinement and tactical concept introduction. A typical 90-minute session might be divided among general movements, soccer coordination, small-sided games, and soccer technique, all conducted in a fun and interactive environment . By following these guidelines, youth soccer programs in New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver can provide an optimal learning experience for young players, setting the stage for their continued development and enjoyment of the sport.

Train to Train (U11/U12-U15/U16)

The Train to Train stage is a crucial period in youth soccer development, particularly for players in British Columbia cities like New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver. This phase, typically encompassing ages 11 to 16, is characterized by significant physical and cognitive changes, advanced skill development, and the introduction of competitive elements.

Physical and Cognitive Changes

During this stage, players experience rapid physical growth and cognitive development. This period often coincides with growth spurts and adolescence, making physical training increasingly important . As players mature, their cognitive abilities also advance, allowing them to think critically and analyze situations more effectively.

Cognitive skills, which refer to the ability to identify and acquire environmental information and integrate it with existing knowledge, play a crucial role in soccer performance . Executive functions (EF), a subset of cognitive skills, are particularly important. These functions regulate thoughts and actions, especially in non-routine situations .

Core executive functions (CEF), including working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control, develop their total capacity earlier in the lifespan, often before early adolescence . This makes the Train to Train stage an ideal time to focus on these cognitive aspects.

Advanced Skill Development

As players progress through this stage, there is a strong emphasis on refining and polishing technical skills to a higher level of proficiency . Coaches should focus on mastering techniques such as passing, dribbling, shooting, and ball control through dedicated training and practice at game-like speeds.

Research has shown a positive relationship between certain cognitive functions and soccer-specific motor skills . For instance, a wider attention window (AW) has been associated with advanced dribbling skills. This suggests that players with a broader AW may have an advantage in perceiving optical stimuli in their visual field, enhancing their performance in demanding motor tasks .

Working memory capacity (WMC) has also been positively correlated with dribbling, ball control, and ball juggling skills . These findings highlight the importance of incorporating cognitive training into soccer development programs.

Competitive Elements

The Train to Train stage introduces more challenging competitive situations, requiring players to make quick and accurate decisions under pressure . Players are encouraged to view every competition as a growth opportunity, regardless of the outcome.

To develop decision-making skills, coaches should implement specific training exercises and simulated game scenarios. These activities help players learn to analyze the game, anticipate opponents’ actions, and choose the most effective options in high-pressure environments .

Incorporating competitive elements in training can also help develop players’ ability to perform advanced soccer skills, such as striking a ball with texture. Techniques like dipping, bending, and knuckling the ball, as well as direct set pieces, are rare even at the elite collegiate level and should be introduced during this stage .

By focusing on the interplay between cognitive and motor skills, coaches in British Columbia’s youth soccer programs can create more effective training programs. This approach not only enhances players’ on-field performance but also contributes to their overall development as athletes and individuals.

Soccer for Life: Stages 5-7

Train to Compete

The Train to Compete stage marks a significant transition for young soccer players in British Columbia, including those in New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver. This phase typically begins in high school, where athletes have the opportunity to pursue excellence in sport achievement . During this stage, players usually choose to specialize in soccer, focusing on solidifying sport-specific and position-specific skills.

Athletes entering this stage are preparing to compete at the highest levels, maximizing their physical, mental, cognitive, and emotional capacities . The training becomes more intense and tailored to individual needs. Coaches in BC youth soccer programs should focus on teaching players how to handle various distractions, such as changes in weather and different competition venues, preparing them for the challenges of high-level play .

Train to Win

The Train to Win stage represents the pinnacle of the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) high-performance stream. At this point, athletes may consider themselves «full-time athletes» and often have access to a Performance Enhancement Team, including physical therapists, trainers, and physicians . This stage is characterized by the most intense training suitable for international winning performances .

For young soccer players in BC aspiring to reach professional levels, this stage requires world-class training methods, equipment, and facilities that meet both personal demands and the demands of the sport . It’s important to note that while early majority engagement in soccer is common among elite youth players, specializing solely in soccer from an early age is not necessarily a predictor of professional success .

Active for Life

The Active for Life stage is both a culmination and an ongoing phase of the LTAD model. It emphasizes lifelong engagement in soccer and physical activity, which is particularly relevant for youth soccer programs in BC cities. This stage can be entered at any age following the acquisition of physical literacy .

For high-performance athletes, this stage represents the transition from a competitive career to lifelong physical activity. They may choose to continue playing soccer competitively, become involved as game officials or coaches, or try new sports and activities . The overall goal is for all individuals to enjoy participating in a variety of competitive and recreational opportunities in sport and physical activity .

Research has shown that recreational-level soccer play and soccer-related exercise drills can provide significant health benefits. These include reduced cholesterol and blood pressure, improved body composition, and increased lean muscle mass . Importantly, these benefits can be achieved after just 12 to 16 weeks of training, making soccer an excellent lifelong sport for maintaining health and fitness .

Soccer’s versatility as a «multipurpose sport» combines endurance, strength, and high-intensity interval training, offering comprehensive physical benefits . Moreover, soccer allows players of all skill levels and ages to participate and reap health benefits, with studies showing that even first-time players in their 80s can experience improvements in their health .

By fostering a love for soccer from an early age and providing pathways for continued involvement, BC youth soccer programs can contribute to lifelong health and well-being for participants across New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver.

Conclusion

The Long-Term Player Development model has a significant influence on youth soccer in British Columbia, providing a structured approach to nurture young talent. From Active Start to Soccer for Life, this framework guides coaches and parents in helping kids develop their skills and love for the game. The focus on age-appropriate training and small-sided games ensures that young players in New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver can grow both as athletes and individuals.

As we’ve seen, each stage of development brings unique challenges and opportunities for young soccer players. By understanding these stages, coaches and parents can better support their children’s journey in the sport. To give your child the best start in their soccer adventure, consider registering them with Sefa Soccer Academy. Remember, the goal is not just to create great players, but to foster a lifelong love for soccer and physical activity, contributing to healthier, more active communities across British Columbia.

FAQs

What is considered the most critical age for skill development in soccer?
The most crucial period for skill development in soccer is between the ages of 8 to 13. During this phase, young players typically experience the most significant advancements in sensorimotor and cognitive abilities that are essential for professional play.

What does LTPD stand for in soccer?
LTPD stands for Long Term Player Development. It is a developmental framework designed for soccer that focuses on training, competition, and recovery schedules based on a player’s biological age (physical maturity) rather than their chronological age. This approach is centered around the player, driven by coaches, and supported by administrative bodies, sport science, and sponsors.

Can you explain the concept of Long Term Player Development in soccer?
Long Term Player Development (LTPD) in soccer is a comprehensive program aimed at enhancing player development, training, competition, and recovery. It prioritizes biological age, or physical maturity, over chronological age to tailor development programs. LTPD is designed to be player-centric, driven by coaches, and supported by sport science, administrative staff, and sponsors. Its goal is to bridge any gaps in the player development system.

How is a soccer player’s age group determined?
A soccer player’s age group is determined by subtracting the player’s birth year from the year at the end of the seasonal soccer year. For example, if a player is born in 2010 and the soccer season ends in 2025, the calculation would be 2025 — 2010 = 15. Thus, the player would be in the Under-15 (U15) age group.