Grassroots Development Overview

The RHSC Grassroots Development Program is designed to introduce young players to a high-quality, development-focused soccer environment that prioritizes learning, enjoyment, and long-term growth. This program serves as a key foundation within our player pathway, preparing athletes for future competitive opportunities within RHSC.

Program Philosophy

The primary focus of the Grassroots Development Program is to develop young players in a fun, engaging, and age-appropriate learning environment. RHSC follows all guidelines set out by Canada Soccer and Ontario Soccer’s Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) model, ensuring players receive the right type of training at the right stage of their development.

RHSC is a proud holder of the National Youth Club License, and our grassroots teams follow a 52-week curriculum developed and delivered by our Technical Staff. Training sessions are carefully planned to ensure a balanced emphasis across the Four Corners of Development:

  • Technical – Ball mastery, passing, receiving, dribbling, and finishing fundamentals
  • Physical – Agility, coordination, balance, and movement skills appropriate to age
  • Psychological – Confidence, decision-making, creativity, and resilience
  • Social – Teamwork, communication, respect, and enjoyment of the game

Players are introduced to the fundamentals of soccer in a way that matches their current age and stage of development, setting them up for long-term success and a lifelong love of the game.

Learn Through Play

An essential component of the Grassroots Development Program is learning through play. Small-sided games and game-based activities are heavily emphasized, allowing players to develop technical skills, decision-making, and confidence in a natural and enjoyable environment. This approach supports both athletic and personal development during critical early years.

Player Pathway

Participation in the Grassroots Development Program helps prepare players for RHSC’s competitive U14 teams and OPDL pathway. As such, players are expected to show a strong level of commitment, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. Players do not need to be previous members of RHSC to be considered for the program. However, entry is based on a player selection process. Players interested in the Grassroots Development Program are encouraged to register for Grassroots Orientation Sessions.

Training & Competition

  • Teams typically train 2–3 times per week
  • Games are played in addition to the weekly training schedule
  • Training days and times vary by team and age group

Interested in Learning More?

If you would like more information about the Grassroots Development (Competitive) Program, including the player selection process, please contact nathaniel@richmondhillsoccer.com. We look forward to helping young players grow, develop, and fall in love with the game through RHSC’s Grassroots Development Program.