Canada Soccer has announced updates to the Grassroots Standards, which guide soccer development in Canada up to Under-13. Over the past year, the Canada Soccer Development Department has collaborated with Technical Directors from Provincial and Territorial Member Associations to revise the original Grassroots Standards, first introduced as guidelines in 2020.

At the request of the Canada Soccer Development Department and Provincial/Territorial Member Associations, the Canada Soccer Board of Directors approved the addition of the following statement to the Canada Soccer Rules and Regulations:

Clubs that operate a youth programme will be required to align with the Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards by the start of the season 2026. Special Dispensation may be applied for through the Provincial/Territorial Member Association in whose jurisdiction the club operates if a club cannot meet the Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards in their entirety.

“Having clear standards is crucial to ensuring that directions set by Canada Soccer are being met”, said Patrik Zimmermann, Alberta Soccer Sporting Director. “We appreciate having such a thorough document that can provide PSOs with benchmarks that foster safe and inclusive environments for all those wanting to participate in soccer in this country.”

For more information and to review the updated Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards, please click here.