TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PROCESS AND OBJECTIVES

LEAGUE REVIEW ● Mission Statement ● Core Principles ● Development Objectives ● Partnerships

DEVELOPMENT STRUCTURE ● Long Term Player Development and Player Pathway ● Program and League Platform ● Technical Leadership

KEY OBSERVATIONS ● Harmony and Regional Partnerships ● Relationship Building ● Threats and Challenges

PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS ● Overview ● Four Pillars of Development (Technical, Tactical, Physical, Mental) ● Positional Capacities ● Coaching Philosophy and Program Analysis

COACH DEVELOPMENT ● Working Environment ● Licensing ● Ongoing Education and Mentoring ● Female Development

PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT ● Goalkeeping Development ● Physical Development ● Psychological Development ● Parent Education

EXPANDED RECOMMENDATIONS

INTRODUCTION OF CLUB PERFORMANCE CRITERIA REVIEW

Two Year Technical Review 2 | P a g e

Executive Summary

The following two year technical review of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League has been created to provide all stakeholders, which include the governing bodies of soccer in Canada, regional professional club partner, member clubs, district executives, coaches, players and parents an opportunity to receive technically focused feedback and recommendations as it pertains to the creation of the High Performance program and league.

The findings provide an overview of the vast achievements and the technical development advancements seen in the areas of player, coach, training and competition environments. It will include the status of the current environment and recommendations as it relates to the growth and improvement of the high performance stream of activity within British Columbia.

Where were we? Fact… ● Worldwide training of players is becoming more sophisticated while we stubbornly cling to outdated traditions! ● The environment of the high performance player was not good enough ● The pathway was clouded with numerous obstacles ● Talented youth players are stretched too thin ● Too many games ● Not enough good games/competition ● Limited and low number of training sessions ● No required standards set / met for coaches ● The call for harmonization and the scientific data and technical research and recommendations were ignored

Where are we now? Fact… ✓ With the partnership of the Canadian Soccer Association, Long Term Player Development Vision, technical guidance and service from BC Soccer and the Vancouver Whitecaps FC the high performance player and coach are provided with cutting edge technical information ✓ The clustering of high performance players and the effect of stage specific educated coaches has raised the quality of the training environment ✓ A top down lead…clear pathway has been established ✓ The establishment of a program wide annual periodized plan for the HP environment continues to coordinate the HP players activities including a recognized match play and approved threshold ✓ The overall environment and quality within matches has vastly improved ✓ Required training ratios has established minimum standards clubs have met but has challenged the member club to meet even a greater standard for the future ✓ Leading the way in coach development with the introduction of long term mandatable standards ✓ Continued challenges exist with the establishment of true harmonization ✓ Increased knowledge has advanced the acceptance, understanding and implementation of critical player development information and the setting of key objectives

Two Year Technical Review 3 | P a g e

The overall findings provides an opportunity for those who have positively influenced the HP environment within British Columbia to truly celebrate those achievements which have come in the initial two (2) years of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League existence.

Some of the key successes would include the following;  The creation of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League with its technical leadership, administrative and governance leadership has established itself as the key delivery vehicle for HP stream in British Columbia  The professional training, leadership and essential HP influence on 1500+ male and female players annually within program and League platforms  95 players in 2012 - 2014 selected to Whitecaps FC Residency Program and Girls Elite Program  277 players in 2013 influenced within the BC Soccer Provincial Development Program  80+ players in 2013 graduating from league to continue education and playing with a university/college soccer program  17 players in 2013 selected to Canadian National Youth Team program  96% of EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League head coaches met the minimum standard of B Provincial “Certified Status” or recognized equivalent for 2014

However it should be noted that the report also keenly identifies areas in which all stakeholders must demonstrate a true commitment to the overall improvement as it relates to a number of the overall key player and coach development needs and the required competencies to meet our development objectives moving forward.

Two Year Technical Review 4 | P a g e

In addition the report highlights the need for all stakeholders to display advanced sense and commitment to the “PLAYER 1ST” mentality and vigilantly lead the journey to the new age of high performance player development within British Columbia.

We play soccer for different reasons…because it is enjoyable and healthy, because we enjoy and demand advanced competition and training, because we want to expand and enhance our relationships with other players and coaches and because we want long term success on numerous levels.

However beyond those elements we know that there is an interest and aim to win!

We acknowledge this is a key component of our mandate but it must not highjack the true development focus which sits squarely on the established core principles of the program and the player advancement opportunities. These are essential for the long term success of HP programming and the delivery of players to the next level of play which should be our key objective!

Where do we need to be? It was the goal of this report to shine light on the need for all stakeholders to strive for improvement in key areas while educating those involved as it pertains to avoiding the following; 1. Any unhealthy focus on winning too early and short term analysis 2. Lack of understanding and importance as it relates to tactical growth within a unit and team 3. Overtraining and calendar congestion 4. Clubs, programs and coaches seeing every game and players lack of performance on one particular day as a threat to the success of that club or coach 5. Lack of development patience 6. Lack of commitment, prioritization and research to the improve and enhance a player's training environment as a priority 7. Not addressing the continued need for ongoing parent and coaching leadership requirements.

Two Year Technical Review 5 | P a g e

Overview of Key “Recommendations” to Advance EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League Program and High Performance Stream

Key Observations - All stakeholders to focus on creating a new and improved working / partnership environment which will assist in bridging the gaps within the structure and meeting the overall mandate of the high performance league. EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League member clubs to establish action plans surrounding an internal review, creation, modifying and support of the operational delivery of the required player and coaching development services as a high performance partner.

Performance Analysis - Technical leads to better utilize existing age specific technical curriculum striving to focus more attention on meeting the objectives within the training environment and recognizing the importance of coach influence for the players’ required development needs. EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League member clubs to develop inter club, player centred activities to better utilize training space and focus on the required tactical needs of “the player” as it relates to units and the team.

Coach Development - Technical Directors in conjunction with BC Soccer and its soccer development department to establish long term coaching education plans to create succession plans and prepare coaches for future appointments effectively. The EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League member clubs to introduce in depth female education and recruitment programs to enhance the introduction and advancement of female coach development.

Program Development - EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League member clubs will be required to provide annual evidence of their overall commitment to ongoing development, prioritization and deliver on ALL requirements within Technical Operations Manual to the level required within the high performance stream by the 2015 season on and off the field. These member clubs to establish early parent education programming and access to program / league information.

Two Year Technical Review 6 | P a g e

Following the overall analysis of the current high performance landscape within British Columbia and with the completion of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League 2 Year Technical Review. It will be brought to the attention of the BC Soccer High Performance Development Committee that no expansion of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League is recommended at this time.

Further details of all the recommendations from the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League 2 Year Technical Review are outlined on pages 29 and 30 of the report.

Two Year Technical Review 7 | P a g e

Process & Objectives

In the process of establishing the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League it was agreed a comprehensive technical review of the selected member clubs performance and their current ability to meet the recognized standards as it relates to the technical operations manual must be undertaken. It was agreed this review would take place in support of the recognized high performance development pathway and following the first two (2) years of operations of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League. This report was targeted for consumption by its stakeholders, BC Soccer membership and the interested public.

The creation of this report has been inclusive, extensive and provides for honesty within its evaluation of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League. We thank those who have contributed to the findings. The process of the review involved the following three (3) key steps;

1. Gathering all technical review information from BC Soccer and its Soccer Development staff 2. Requesting feedback from the technical directors of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League 3. Meeting with and gathering feedback from all key stakeholders;

 Canadian Soccer Association  Vancouver Whitecaps FC  Supporting Member Clubs

It was the overall objective of the process to receive, review and present essential development focused observations and to produce vital recommendations to advance the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League which the technical oversight envision as paramount to long term growth and player centred success of the high performance stream of development.

Two Year Technical Review 8 | P a g e

League Review

Mission Statement

It is the goal of BC Soccer to continue to be committed to a comprehensive approach to improve player development in British Columbia, ultimately, to make Canada a stronger soccer nation. Part of the broad- based plan is the creation and development of a High Performance League in BC supported by a technical sub - committee which will have the responsibility to guide and advise the league as it relates to all matters of a technical nature. The members of this recognized sub-committee will include the technical staff of BC Soccer’s soccer development department, a technical representative(s) of each member club and a member(s) of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC technical staff.

The EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League will deliver on the following key development initiatives:

● Support CSA’s “Player First” mentality and it’s Long Term Player Development strategy ● Harmonize all high performance levels of programming ● Eliminates congestion and provides greater clarity for all stakeholders ● Work within existing and supporting structures ● Drive improvements to all aspects of high performance soccer

In addition the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League is built on the following guiding core principles of development;

Core Principles

1. To allow players to further develop their skills in an environment, this includes other technically advanced players playing within a competitive and demanding atmosphere. 2. To enhance the technical and tactical components of the players game through extensive on and off field training and education. 3. To provide the players with access to certified and experienced and professional levels of coaching. 4. To provide the players specific guidance in the areas of diet and nutrition, mental preparation, physical fitness and post-secondary education. 5. To provide leadership and information on life skills and promote the importance of commitment to excellence and citizenship. 6. To provide a healthy and safe training environment to ensure responsible and sustainable development of the player.

Development Objectives

● Provide an elevated level of competition for high performance players within BC ● Provide a strong contribution to player development for the Canadian National Team level of play ● Provide a recognized pathway for players to be identified for BC Soccer Provincial Teams Program, Canadian University, US Colleges and Universities and ultimately the Professional level of play with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC of Major League Soccer.

Two Year Technical Review 9 | P a g e

Partnerships

Development Partners

Corporate Partners

Two Year Technical Review 10 | P a g e

Development Structure

Long Term Player Development

LTPD is a vision for soccer player development, training, competition, and recovery based on biological age (i.e. physical maturity) rather than chronological age. It is player centred, coach driven, and administration, sport science, and sponsor supported.

LTPD: Benefits for coaches & clubs: • Eliminates gaps in the player development • Information and education on effective system. coaching and practice methods. • Guides planning for optimal athletic • Guidelines for appropriate game structures. performance at all stages. • Guidelines on appropriate competition levels. • Provides a framework for program alignment • Established pathways for player development and integration, from volunteer club coaches to for all levels of ability and ambition. national and professional teams. • Affirmation of best practices for coaches and • Follows scientific principles and practical club administrators. coaching experiences. Benefits for all: Benefits for players & parents: • Competitive behavior is fostered in players, • Better understanding of what makes a good while over-competitive behavior is discouraged soccer program. in adults (E.g. coaches and parents). • More players learning at their level and having • Players, parents, coaches, and administrators fun. understand that players are unique and • Appropriate game and league structures (e.g. therefore different in interest and aptitude. size of balls, goals, field etc.). • Players stay involved in the sport throughout • More opportunity for players to realize their their lives (as players, coaches, referees or club athletic potential. administrators). • More coaches who are knowledgeable in • Soccer grows, and lifelong wellness is leading safe, effective practices. promoted for players of all ages, genders, and levels of ability and disability.

Two Year Technical Review 11 | P a g e

Program and League Platform

Technical Leadership EA Sports BC Soccer Club Technical Directors

The benefits continue to evolve through the creation of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League Technical Sub-Committee. This technical leadership and oversight is critical to the advancements and focus required to continue to act as a beacon for the HP stream in British Columbia.

Two Year Technical Review 12 | P a g e

The leadership group includes:

● Eight (8) Technical Directors of member clubs of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League ● BC Soccer Technical and Development Staff ● Vancouver Whitecaps FC Technical Staff ● General Manager of EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League

To enhance the environment and promote a global perspective as it relates to this groups oversight it is essential they remember their roles and responsibilities to act with Impartiality and Confidentiality and work towards the greater interests of the player and not their own club in isolation.

In addition to the value seen by establishing monthly meetings for this group, the technical focused strategic goals should continue to include the following;

1. Provide feedback and technical focused updates on the program / league 2. The setting of phase based key objectives 3. Report on Provincial Development program and HP Programming 4. Report on Vancouver Whitecaps FC Academy activities 5. Report on CSA National Team programming

Two Year Technical Review 13 | P a g e

Key Observations

Harmony, Regional Partnerships

“Organizations (Clubs, National Associations, Development Programming) who are not unified on positions of the team…are in danger of cliques and self interest groups prevailing over the team! An organization who ignores such advice risk becoming embroiled in power struggles which will ultimately undermine the teams overall goals”

Rinus Michels - Architect of the Dutch Philosophy of “Total Football”

In the process of evaluating and assessing our strengths and weaknesses as it pertains to the establishment of the HP stream of play and the coinciding development platform within British Columbia we continued to ask ourselves the following question…

“Have we as community of soccer people always made our development decisions based on the player’s interests 1st and foremost?”

Contrary to what the program leadership see as a true belief in answering this question correctly, we continue to witness a lack unanimous support of this statement both on and off the field of play.

The commitment to this mandate should not be seen as a mythical or secretive stance in support of the recognized process but one we must continue to remind ourselves of within all of our duties on and off the field of play.

The ultimate goal is to achieve higher levels of performance through a properly mapped-out delivery system which includes progression planning, organized training, and evaluation and competition platforms. It is the hope that this will eliminate the random approach and highlight the services the “Player” requires.

Relationship Building

The commitment to this mindset and opportunities to enhance it would be benefited by the recommended introduction of the following relationship building initiatives;

 Quarterly Partnership Meetings with EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League and Metro Selects League and regional supporting leagues  The introduction EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League member club and regional partner club workshops  The establishment of coaching workshops and work experiences with regional partners clubs  Establish EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League and partners club technical focused declaration for public awareness  EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League and BC Soccer hosting of Governance and Board member seminar on the benefits of HP partnerships

All constituents must know and support the key message that the “Players make the difference”…it is as simple as that and it should be our guiding force as we strive to improve!

Two Year Technical Review 14 | P a g e

Key Threats and Challenges

Current Level Recommended Level

Unbalanced training times limited space to provide Consistent weekly delivery minimum half Facilities appropriate training environment (1/2) field per team

Player Costs Varied cost to service ratio league wide Standardized fees across the league

Full representation at all age groups and an Female Insufficient full population of teams and limited coach increase in female Head Coaches and appointments Programming mentorship

Player Movement Lacks consistent support from regional leagues resulting in Fully supported culture surrounding the & Regional a dependence on permitting and current rules are overall integrated player pathway League Relations restrictive for efficient player movement

Two Year Technical Review 15 | P a g e

Performance Analysis

Overview

In the overall performance analysis of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League, the focus was placed on the following factors in shaping our process and identifying an overarching set of guidelines for the review.

This provided for an opportunity to highlight the following essential elements within these factors which should be featured in the any of the member clubs technical implementation planning and act as core strategies within their coaching staff.

Two Year Technical Review 16 | P a g e

As a key reminder to all the diagram below provides the overview of the age specific relationship between the individual and the collective as it relates to the ongoing assessment and our interest in “TALENT IDENTIFICATION”.

In addition to the overall analysis there was a heavy focus on the entry and younger age groups to ascertain the long term needs and current development environment we found within the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League.

This also provided as guide to all aspects within the performance analysis within the four pillars of development.

Talent Identification vs Competition

The table below provides further details on some of the key observations which were gathered during these evaluations, assessments and performance analysis within the entry level of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League.

Two Year Technical Review 17 | P a g e

Four Pillars of Development

It is crucial that we identify the main priorities pertaining to the development of players within these stages so curriculum delivery becomes consistent throughout the league serving as a vehicle for player advancement. The following pillars of development are broken down to highlight some of the valuable points relating to a player’s progress.

During the process of collaboration between the BC Soccer Development Staff and the Technical Sub- Committee members, below is a summary of what were among the common observations and feedback received relating to technical and tactical deficiencies across players in the league.

As it relates to more in depth analysis, see key competencies that are required by players more often and more consistently within the high performance stages of development (STAGE 4 & 5).

Two Year Technical Review 18 | P a g e

Technical Physical ● The individualization of skills training to ● Player focused on his/her general and address player’s strengths and balanced physical conditioning. weaknesses. ● Aerobic training should be a priority for ● Consistency being displayed in the players conditioning. performing skills and techniques within ● Focused flexibility training. games; control, passing, dribbling and ● Monitored strength training prioritized for shooting of the ball. players. ● Perform skills within competitive ● Players should be focusing on soccer conditions. specific conditioning needs. ● Player should be developing skills and ● Players understand and implement techniques through tactical links. different components of their fitness ● Player should display positional schedule. awareness as it relates to the position of ● Focus on posture in and out of training. the ball and the opposition. ● Musculoskeletal evaluations can begin ● Player understands the importance of with players. quality passing and possession with a ● Body should be displaying continued higher degree of ball control within the shoulder, elbow, core and ankle and game. spine stability.

Tactical Mental ● Player is introduced to the early stages ● Mental preparation programming can be of tactical preparation. advanced with the introduction ● Player can understand and implement additional concepts; Goal setting key team principles and team shape. medium and long term, concentration, ● Displaying ability to support and show competitiveness, visualization and for the ball with an essence of timing, relaxation techniques. angles and off the ball running. ● Basic anxiety control is being displayed. ● Displaying effectiveness in playing in ● Understanding and demonstration of a small sided games within training. balanced winning vs. losing mentality. ● Play in 11v11 format of games. ● Players should be using training and ● Introduction of more advanced time management materials; logbook attack/defending concepts. and day timers. ● Play in a variety of positions within the ● Players should be discussing and field of play. dealing with social challenges; alcohol ● Understanding of the rules of the game. culture, peer pressure, school, jobs and ● Begin to read and understand the game relationships. and the concepts of width and depth. ● Interpersonal skills should be advancing with the understanding of the overall team concept.

Two Year Technical Review 19 | P a g e

Positional Player Capacities

It is vital that coaches and players alike are familiar with general to specific information as it relates to his/her roles and responsibilities on the field. The following capacities should be reinforced in training and match play in order for progress to occur with ongoing feedback provided to players.

Goalkeepers ● To be the last line of defense and stop the ball going into the goal ● To help control and defend the space between the goalkeeper and the rest of the defenders ● To combine and cooperate with other defenders and other teammates (i.e. at set pieces). ● Be the ‘eyes’ for those who are defending in the defending third of the field ● To start and attacks in the defending third of the field ● To take the pressure off the team with sound decision making & composure

Fullbacks ● To help control and defend the space between the goalkeeper and the defense ● To combine and cooperate with other defenders ● To support and cover fellow central defenders ● To prevent strikes at goal from opponents from crosses and shots within 30 yards of goal ● To provide a wide outlet for the goalkeeper to pass ● To start and progress attacks in the defending and middle third of the field

Centre Backs ● To control and defend the space between the goalkeeper and the central defenders ● To combine and cooperate with other defenders ● To support and cover fellow central defenders and full backs ● To prevent strikes at goal from opponents from crosses and shots within 30 yards of goal ● To provide an outlet for the goalkeeper to pass centrally ● To start and progress attacks in the defending and middle third of the field

Wide Attackers (Fwd/Mid) ● To provide a constant link between the defenders & the attacking players ● To combine and cooperate with central midfield players, (interchanging of positions & passes) ● To combine with full backs & central defenders and forwards ● To support and cover fellow midfielders and for defenders who drive into midfield ● To provide a constant wide outlet for the defenders to pass to. ● To support the defenders from the front & support the attackers from behind ● To pose a threat on the opponents goal

Centre Midfielders ● To provide a constant link between the defenders & the attacking players ● To combine and cooperate with wide midfield players, full backs & central defenders ● To combine with forwards and other attacking players ● To support and cover fellow midfielders and for defenders who drive into midfield ● To provide a constant outlet for the defenders to pass to. ● To support the defenders from the front & support the attackers from behind ● To pose a threat on the opponents goal

Two Year Technical Review 20 | P a g e

Strikers ● To operate as the most forward of attacking players ● To operate in front and behind the oppositions defence ● To assess & move into goal scoring positions whenever there is a chance of delivery ● To create goal scoring opportunities for team mates ● To be a persistent ‘outlet’ for defending & midfield players in possession ● To control & keep possession of the ball to ensure that attacking play can continue ● To delay & try to stop attacking play building up amongst the opposition defenders

Coaching Philosophy and Program Analysis

In order to analyse performance, programming and planning for what’s ahead, club technical leads and team coaches need to reflect on specific questions to help them identify how they can progress, by asking some of the following areas of implementation, for example:

1. What did we learn last season about performing in this League and what are our expectations for this season? 2. What must we not lose in the way we play but what must we stop doing? 3. What will the personality of this season’s team be? 4. What will be the anticipated issues on/off field coming up this season? 5. What can we do to ‘freshen up’ our environment, coaching and communication? 6. What can improve us – physically, technically, tactically, and mentally?

Two Year Technical Review 21 | P a g e

Coach Development

Working Environment

All coaches should share and work towards a unified vision of quality player development which embraces strong values and sound competencies. This shared aim is to use the power of soccer to build a better future using the established league delivering on high performance. Coaches’ values should be responsive to the needs of players and soccer in general. By being open to new ideas and receptive of other views, one can be confident in delivering on technical leadership and the approach of a unified player development model. The environment that is created should be inclusive while encouraging everyone to enjoy this great game. Everyone must be accountable to those they work with and to the soccer community at large. On a daily basis, coaches need to be challenging themselves and those around them to bring out the best in players.

All member clubs should be reminded of the importance of the following best practices within the coaching environment and that effectiveness;

● Head Coaches committed to leading one (1) team ● Avoid appointment of parent coaches ● Establish two (2) year cycles for age group succession for all coaches

The passion for the game needs to be evident sharing competencies within the areas of leadership and responsibility while showing direction. Communication should influence the atmosphere contributing to the game while demonstrating achievements along the way. In the pursuit of excellence, the approach should be innovative while appreciating the significance of one’s ongoing coach educational opportunities.

Therefore, it is recommended that all member clubs of the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League support the promotion of their coaches within coaching development opportunities such as BC Soccer Provincial Development Program and additional HP environments.

Two Year Technical Review 22 | P a g e

Licensing

League Coaching Standards Acknowledging the feedback from the Technical Directors regarding the challenges surrounding certification standards for the league, the following chart has been designed to recognize the various levels of coach education and its progression. This consideration pertains to Head Coaches while reaching for the goal of supporting Canadian coach education at a minimum B License National “Certified Status” level in the future. For example, in 2014 a Head Coach may be appointed to a team who has completed the training component of the B Provincial yet may or may not have been successful in his/her assessments.

This coach would need to complete the requirements of a pass in order to move forward into the B National level. Where foreign Equivalency is concerned, unless the formal application is approved by the CSA, a coach would not hold any designation within Canada (as per CSA policy). The NSCAA diplomas are being acknowledged for their content despite no formal assessments pertaining to a pass or fail scenario.

In 2015, equivalency and NSCAA is straight forward while coaches may be appointed who have been trained at the B National level with the goal of becoming certified in the future.

Two Year Technical Review 23 | P a g e

● Of the head coaches listed on the BCSPL registration for the 2014 league, 96% of EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League head coaches met the minimum standard of B Provincial “Certified Status” or recognized equivalent for 2014 ● In order to impose standards while being flexible at this point, the remaining 4% were granted special dispensation to meet the required standard within the 2014 calendar year ● In light of the 2015 League standards for Head Coaches, BC Soccer’s coach development department monitored the selection process for this year’s B License National course giving priority and opportunity to those coaches within the league who were striving towards attaining this level

Ongoing Coach Education and Mentoring

In order to secure successful coaching progression planning for the health of the League and each independent Club, it is strongly advisable that the following points are considered and addressed on an annual basis respective to the annual plan and timelines. Here are the following recommendations:

● Retain the coaches that are in place now to provide planned progression for the following year to meet the unified goals for coaching standards and beyond ● Whether recruiting from Assistant coaches or new coaches on the horizon, get them into the pathway as early as possible as there is only so much that can be done realistically in the event of a last minute situation ● Acquire the inventory needs at the Assistant coach level and host a Soccer for Life for large groups of coaches (over 15) or encourage them register for independent courses elsewhere in the province as posted on the BC Soccer registration database

It is also recommended that coach mentoring initiatives should be created and offered by the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League Member Clubs for aspiring coaches.

The framework needs to establish this opportunity surrounding a team environment during the league season. This opportunity should provide the chance for coaches to develop through program experiences, for example, on field training involvement, competitive match engagement and off field preparation participation. The aim of this type of program is to prepare coaches for the demands of coaching at various levels with increased responsibilities as well as preparing them to advance through the National Certification Pathway.

Two Year Technical Review 24 | P a g e

Female Coach Development Initiatives

It should be a priority that all EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League member clubs provide opportunities for a selected group of female coaches to work closely with coaches within the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League and gender specific program years. This will assist in meeting the objective of having a female coach with each female team.

The goal of this initiative is to create an atmosphere where by these coaches may learn in a high performance, exciting, educational and safe environment. It is the hope this experience will encourage them to continue their path of development as a coach and make a commitment to a lifelong involvement in the coaching of players at all levels of play within British Columbia.

In addition, establishing partnerships with local University and College Female Soccer programs is highly recommended as a means to help foster and target potential female candidatures suitable for mentorship programs and access to early coach education.

Two Year Technical Review 25 | P a g e

Program Development

Goalkeeping Development

During the review process, consultations were conducted with all clubs Goalkeeper Coaches about their perspective club Goalkeeping Programs These consultations covered the following three components:

Training Environment Most clubs are conducting between 1-2 GK Specific Technical Sessions per week. Greater emphasis is now needed on having the Club Goalkeeper Coaches available to attend team sessions to aid the Keepers in match like scenarios to improve overall decision making. The Goalkeeper Coaches can also be a key figure in helping the team coach with overall tactical sessions and evaluating the goalkeeper’s role within the team. More consistent feedback/communication is needed between the Goalkeeper Coaches and the Goalkeepers in the training Environment. What is lacking league wide is ongoing positional specific coaching education to provide team coaches an idea of how to handle the goalkeepers if and when the Goalkeeper Coach may not be present at team sessions.

Training Environment Requirements ● Continued or increased Goalkeeper Technical Sessions provided for the Goalkeepers ● Goalkeeper coaches present at Team sessions and assist the team coaches with planning, organization and implementation of team tactical sessions ● Goalkeeper Coaches present at Team Sessions to assist the Goalkeepers in match like training scenarios ● More consistent feedback needed between Goalkeeper Coaches and Goalkeepers within the training environment. ● Ongoing club coaching education to educate the coaches of what can be done with the Goalkeepers if and when the Goalkeeper coach is not present at Team Training.

Match Day Environment Big area of concern for Goalkeepers in general is the lack of support they receive on match day. Too often the Goalkeepers are left alone to prepare for the match without any coaches assistance, as a High Performance League this is something that needs to be addressed.

Match Day Environment Requirements ● Goalkeeper Coaches consulted on Goalkeeper selection for matches ● Goalkeeper coaches present on Match days to assist Goalkeeper prepare physically for the matches ● Goalkeeper coaches to aid in post-match analysis ● On-going evaluation of Goalkeepers in Match Play ● Club Wide Pre-Match Warm Up Routine provided by Goalkeeper Coach given to the team coaches to assist the Goalkeepers with pre-game physical preparation if and when the Goalkeeper Coach cannot be present.

Two Year Technical Review 26 | P a g e

Evaluation Environment

Positional Specific knowledge is needed and should be utilized in all aspects of the club, including evaluations and re-evaluations, ongoing scouting, evaluations and assessments of the Clubs and partner clubs goalkeepers (key area at U12 the GK’s coming into the league) and establishing club wide Goalkeeping criteria.

Goalkeeping Evaluation Requirements ● Club Goalkeeper coaches present throughout the Evaluation and Re-Evaluation process to provide positional specific insight on the Goalkeeper. ● Establish a scouting system throughout own club and BCSPL Partner Clubs. ● Establish a Club Wide Goalkeeper Evaluation/selection criteria

Two Year Technical Review 27 | P a g e

Key Trends Needing Improvement Key Trends Needing Improvement “Male Goalkeepers” “Female Goalkeepers” 1. Playing out of the back and Building the Game from 1. Playing out of the back and Building the Game from the Goalkeeper the Goalkeeper Overall distribution Overall distribution ● both from hands and feet ● both from hands and feet ● when to play the ball and where to play ball ● when to play the ball and where to play ball (often played in behind) (often played in behind) ● comfort in being an option in build-up play as an ● comfort in being an option in build-up play as an outfielder outfielder ● length and accuracy of long distribution forward ● length and accuracy of long distribution forward to attacking players to attacking players ● quick team dispersal ● quick team dispersal ● must own responsibility of taking goal kicks! ● Must own responsibility of taking goal kicks! 2. Dealing with Crosses from Wide Areas 2. Aerial Balls ● Positional play on crosses ● Under pressure in a crowded area ● Reading the attacker’s body position on moment → Hesitation coming off goal line of delivery to anticipate the trajectory of the ball → Unable to catch ball at its highest point → in swinging or out swinging balls? ● Adapting own positional play in relation to the 3. Positional Play on shots, crosses, corners and ball and defenders diagonal balls ● Under pressure in a crowded area ● Shot-stopping and 1 on 1 situations → Hesitation to come off goal line for ● Not in ‘set/ready’ position intervention → Still moving or not balanced: unable to react → Unable to catch ball at its highest point effectively and explosively in any direction ● Positional play on crosses and diagonal balls 3. Dealing with Shots from mid/long distances ● Reading the attacker’s body position on moment ● Shot-stopping of delivery ● Not in ‘set/ready’ position → Anticipate the trajectory of the ball in swinging → Still moving or not balanced: unable to react or out swinging balls effectively and explosively in any direction ● Too close to the front post and lack of foot speed to retreat backwards ● Difficulties to get body fully behind the ball and ● Difficulties to get body fully behind the ball properly catching the ball and properly catching the ball ● Lacked spring and explosiveness in dives

Two Year Technical Review 28 | P a g e

Physical Development

In 2011 BC Soccer introduced a recommended league wide Fitness Test protocol. Testing and protocol education sessions were delivered to each club and in 2013 the SPARQ protocol was established as the official fitness testing protocol. All EA Sports franchises are now required to follow the recognized protocol and conduct 3 tests throughout the season as per the following testing schedule:

TEST 1 – First week in February | TEST 2 – First week in April | TEST 3 – First week in September

Test results are collected and submitted into the BC Soccer Science Department for review and will be used to help monitor the player’s physical abilities and provide additional information on the physical preparation standards across the league.

Setting annual training programs and establishing fitness parameters for each training session should be common practice for all EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League.

Following of the outlined scheduled fitness testing dates will provide consistent and valuable data to help coaches and players monitor their progress and help tailor both the team and individual training accordingly. These would include;

 Monitor and Pre-set appropriate intensities for individual training sessions based on time and seasonal priorities. It is imperative for the coaching staff to set conditions and establish the correct motivation / environment specifically when working in High Intensity Training  Incorporate FIFA 11+ warm-up protocol and injury prevention program into your regular training, and be sure to monitor for quality of execution.  Monitor player’s weekly and daily activity and educate players on appropriate levels of activity and the dangers of overtraining.  Clubs should look to educate and deliver diet and nutrition guidance and recover / regeneration strategies.

Two Year Technical Review 29 | P a g e

Psychological Development

The established progress report has been created for Technical Leads and Coaches based on a Player’s reflection requiring a measure to reach certain objectives in overall development as it relates to participation within the High Performance League. Its intent is to bring about awareness of a Player’s APPROACH to the game, how one LEARNS and deals with PERFORMANCE.

The format engages players to reflect on their approach pertaining to a variety of variables. Along with specific and engaging feedback that a coach can offer, it is the hope that together, progress is evident and it places an improved plan into action for players.

Coaches and Players should connect in addressing matters relating to the following performance indicators identified in timelines relating to a micro-cycle.

The content in the report is broken down into the following areas:

Progress Review ■ Understanding the Learning Environment ■ Adapting to the Learning Environment ■ How Am I Doing?

Self-Evaluation ■ Understanding Performance Preparation ■ Dealing with Performance Influences ■ What are my Strengths and Areas I need to Focus On?

Evaluation Review and Action Planning ■ Understanding My Strengths ■ Identifying and Acting on My Weaknesses ■ Am I Driven and Committed to Reach My Goals?

Progress Review ■ Overall Program Feedback ■ Recommendations For Areas to Focus On ■ Future Recommendations

Two Year Technical Review 30 | P a g e

Parent Education

In fulfilling its commitment to delivering a ‘Player First’ environment that ensures responsible and sustainable development, parent education about the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League is essential. What can EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League Club continue to promote to enhance parent education about the league?

 Increase accessibility to league wide FAQ and player pathway documents  Club led parent information sessions about the league and available club services  Link to BC Soccer’s Parent Education Resources to promote respect and fair play

Two Year Technical Review 31 | P a g e

Expanded Recommendations

All Clubs must conduct and internal review as it pertains to the following recommendations to ascertain a current level of compliance and to establish an implementation plan to review guidelines presented within the 2-year review.

Recommendations: Key Observations

● Establish Quarterly Partnership Meetings with EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League and Metro Selects League and regional supporting leagues ● The introduction EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League member clubs and regional partner club workshops ● All EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League member clubs to establish coaching workshops and work experiences with regional partners clubs ● Establish EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League and partners club technical focused declaration of development for partnership public awareness ● EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League and BC Soccer to host Governance and Board member seminar on the benefits of HP partnerships ● Strive to consistent provide the weekly delivery minimum half (1/2) field per team ● Investigate the viability of standardized fees across the league ● Strive for full representation at all age groups and genders but investigate the banding of age groups as possible option ● All member clubs to focus an increase in female Head Coaches and mentorship ● Promote and fully support the culture surrounding the overall integrated player pathway

Recommendations: Performance Analysis

● Establish individual and group programs focusing on the maintenance and the refining of advanced skill work ● Schedule member club based regular training and education of positional specific roles and requirements ● Continue to utilizing small side game format to teach basic principles of attack and defense ● Focus teaching the coordinated behaviours and responsibilities of individual, unit and team of players ● Using soccer specific activities and partnerships for delivering on soccer specific physical development ● Promote a further understanding and the monitoring of load requirements for players in training ● Continue to motivate through positive messaging and creating the right atmosphere and challenge for the players ● As HP coaches recognizing the importance of “my” behaviour in training and game day (body language, words and gestures) ● Establish video analysis programing as an educational tool and to provide access for individual and team review

Two Year Technical Review 32 | P a g e

Recommendations: Coach Development

● Head Coaches committed to leading one (1) team ● Avoid appointment of parent coaches to their son or daughters teams ● Establish two (2) year cycles for age group succession for all coaches ● Retain the coaches that are in place to provide planned progression to meet the unified goals for upcoming coaching standards ● Prioritize early education in the process of recruitment and the development of new coaches to meet the required entry level coaching standards ● Establish long term progression planning for existing coaches to meet the required coaching standards moving forward ● Maintain a current inventory of all Coaches and their status as it pertains to coach certification levels and progression planning ● As part of annual planning submissions, member clubs may host Soccer for Life courses for large groups of coaches (over 15) or encourage them register for independent courses elsewhere in the province as posted on the BC Soccer registration database ● It is recommended that all EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League member clubs provide opportunities, support and mentorship for a selected group of female coaches ● Recommended that all Female teams have a female coach in the position of either Mentor, Assistant or Head Coach ● Establishing partnerships with local University and College Female Soccer programs is highly recommended as a means to help foster and target potential female candidatures suitable for mentorship programs and access to early coach education.

Recommendations: Program Development

● Clubs to ensure that a responsible and sustainable parent education plan is evident pertaining to the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League and all its encompassing details on an ongoing basis ● All clubs to submit for review and approval to BC Soccer and its soccer development department an annual training plan by January of each year ● Clubs to incorporate and make available for review the established player progress report or club specific player reports based on three touch points per year with all players within the league ● It is recommended all clubs technical directors monitor and implement technical training and development priorities and monitor individual training sessions based on time and seasonal objectives ● It is a priority that all clubs incorporate a fully integrated soccer science program at all levels of play; which includes the FIFA 11+ warm-up and injury prevention protocol, access to medical services, and education sessions focused on the importance of diet and nutrition and recover / regeneration strategies ● Each club must focus on the enhancement and growth of the overall service of Goalkeeping under the guidance and direction of the BC Soccer Goalkeeping Development Department ● Ensure that the Training environment, Match day environment and Goalkeeping Evaluation is consistent throughout the league as per recommendations

Two Year Technical Review 33 | P a g e

Member Club Performance Criteria Review

It is the ultimate goal of BC Soccer, its Soccer Development Department and the EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League member clubs to achieve higher levels of performance through a properly mapped-out progression based plan which provides an organized training, evaluation and competition format, thereby eliminating the random approach to development.

This commitment will provide for the following development goals to be met:

 Impact the daily environment of the player...a critical element for improvement  Create an environment which provides a meaningful and sustainable competition format  Talent identification  Develop and create players of high performance, international and professional standard

The two (2) year review process focused on three main areas surrounding coaching, programming and player criteria specified with indicators. Other factors were also taken into consideration, such as, the meeting preparation and evidences provided as well as the fielding of teams within all age groups and genders.

NOT IN HIGH PROGRESSIVE SATISFACTORY DEVELOPMENT STANDARD

Two Year Technical Review 34 | P a g e

Editorial

Official publication

British Columbia Soccer Association (BC Soccer) 250 – 3410 Lougheed Highway Vancouver, BC | V5M 2A4 T: 604 299 6401 www.bcsoccer.net

BC Soccer President Executive Director Chair High Performance Development Committee Roger Barnes Paul Mullen Aiman El Ramly

Soccer Development Department Michael Findlay - Director of Soccer Development Rob Csabai - Director of Coaching Development Markus Reinkens - Manager of Soccer Science / Player Development Luca Dalla Pace - LTPD Liaison / GK Coordinator Andrew Haines - Grassroots Coordinator

EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League Board of Governors President: David Haber | Fusion FC VP/Secretary: Mark Berry | Mountain United FC Treasurer: Darryl Jones | Coastal FC Alex Barnetson | Coquitlam Metro-Ford Rob Jandric | Fraser Valley FC Martin Foden | Surrey United SC Brian Dewar |Thompson Okanagan FC Karen Hood-Deshon |Vancouver Island Wave

General Manager - Matt Holbrook

Technical Sub-Committee

Vancouver Whitecaps FC - Dan Lenarduzzi, Craig Dalrymple & David Irvine

Photos Bob Frid - FreeMotion Photography

Acknowledgements Canadian Soccer Association Vancouver Whitecaps FC

Two Year Technical Review 35 | P a g e