Youth Development Program
The Youth Development Program focuses on developing young soccer players in Coquitlam through structured training that enhances their technical, physical, and mental skills. It includes age-specific training, skill development, tactical awareness, and pathways for progressing to higher levels. The program aims to build a solid foundation for youth athletes, prioritizing long-term growth over immediate results.
Our Programs is designed to build strong foundational skills through age-specific training and tactical development. With a mix of both indoor and outdoor training Coquitlam facilities, our players benefit from a year-round program that keeps them engaged and improving throughout the seasons. The inclusion of games allows them to apply what they’ve learned in real scenarios, ensuring balanced development and continuous growth.
Key Components
Our program is built on key components that promote holistic player development, combining technical training, tactical understanding, physical conditioning, and mental growth
Age-Specific Training
At SEFA Soccer, we know that kids develop differently at every age, so we shape our training to fit their needs. For the little ones, it’s all about building coordination and having fun while learning the basics. As they grow, we incorporate advanced techniques, tactical skills, and strength training to support their progress. This way, they’re always learning the right skills at the right time, setting them up for long-term success and a love for the game. Our goal is to help every child reach their full potential. Our programs are built to challenge and inspire every player.
Skill Development
Technical preparation is the foundation of our developmental program at SEFA Soccer. Players are constantly under pressure to perform, and our technical training equips them with the skills needed to succeed. By practicing varied movements and actions, players learn to adapt quickly on the field. Key skills like receiving, passing, dribbling, and striking are the core of modern soccer, and our coaches emphasize developing and perfecting these techniques to help players excel at the highest level. This creates well-rounded athletes ready to take on any challenge.
Physical Training
In soccer, training has two key components: general and physical. General training aims to develop the player’s overall physical abilities, while physical training focuses on building specific functional skills. At SEFA Soccer, our physical training adapts to a player’s age and stage of development. For younger players, we prioritize coordination, agility, and running techniques. As players reach 13 and older, we shift our focus to speed endurance, strength, and explosive power, ensuring they can perform at a consistently high level.
Tactical Awareness
Soccer tactics involve a deep understanding of the game, situational awareness, and the ability to make quick decisions. For players aged 13 and older, tactical training is crucial, helping them recognize patterns, adapt to formations, and choose the right position on the field. At SEFA Soccer, we use post-game video analysis and showcase professional players to highlight successes and areas for improvement. This method offers instant feedback, helping players refine their decision-making and tactical execution.
Psychological
A player’s success can be enhanced by understanding basic psychology. The dynamics between a coach and a player require thoughtful feedback and careful planning to address each situation properly. Coaching a team is different from coaching an individual athlete—especially in soccer, where younger players (under 12) are more focused on enjoying the game, while older players tend to analyze and refine their skills. We believe in a personalized psychological approach to meet the needs of every player.
Competition & Games
At SEFA Soccer, we believe competitions are essential for player development, as they put training into practice. We proudly compete in the Academy Super League (ASL)—the highest level of competition for youth players in British Columbia. Playing in the ASL pushes our athletes to elevate their game and experience top-level soccer. Matches are not just about winning but about learning, adapting, and growing as a team and as individuals. Our games are held at central locations in Coquitlam, Burnaby, and Vancouver for easy access.
Pathway to Pro Player
Our goal is to provide a clear pathway for talented players to reach the next level in their soccer careers. Many of our graduates have been selected by top programs such as Whitecaps FC Academy, BCSPL clubs, and other elite teams. Competing in the highest leagues and receiving professional training at SEFA Soccer gives our players the exposure and opportunities needed to advance to professional academies and beyond.
Educational Support
We believe in supporting our players on and off the field. Many of our graduates have gone on to earn scholarships at top universities and colleges across Canada and the US. Through our network and guidance, we help talented athletes balance their soccer aspirations with academic opportunities, paving the way for a successful future both in sports and education.
Parental Involvement
We understand the important role parents play in supporting young athletes. That’s why we keep parents fully informed throughout the journey, providing guidance and resources so they can make confident decisions about their child’s development. We’re here to work together and ensure a positive experience for both players and families.