Grassroots Soccer

In Canada, Grassroots Soccer refers to all programming for age groups up to Under 13 (U13). This encompasses the first three stages of the Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) model. The Canadian Soccer Association (CSA) along with Manitoba Soccer Association (MSA) and the Winnipeg Youth Soccer Association (WYSA) are making Grassroots programming mandatory for all QSP, like St. Charles Soccer Association, starting from the 2026 season for all players in U8 through U10. The goal of this initiative is to ensure that age-appropriate soccer is provided to our youngest players.

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Why chose SCSA Grassroots over a non-QSP programs?

The SCSA Grassroots Program is our U8 to U10 Long-Term Player Development program designed to help every player build confidence with age-appropriate training in a positive, inclusive learning environment. Our program is structured, led by soccer focused coaches and supervised by our Technical Director. Players who graduate from Grassroots will be prepared to assess at the Developmental or Premier level or continue in our Recreational stream - players and families deciding which is their best route to the pitch. 

For 2026 Grassroots applies to the following age groups: U8 - 2018 | U9 - 2017 | U10 - 2016. 

The key elements of the Grassroots standards:

• Inclusivity: Programs are designed to accommodate players of all skill levels, ensuring everyone has equal opportunities to participate and succeed.

• Fun and Enjoyment: Focusing on creating enjoyable experiences fosters a lifelong love for the game while developing team social skills.

• Player-Centred Development: Activities and match formats are tailored to the developmental needs of players at each age and stage.

• Skill Acquisition Over Competition: Emphasis is placed on technical and tactical growth rather than win-loss records. This is done by building core skills like ball control, passing, dribbling and shooting using high activity and repetitive learning.

   

What is the difference between Grassroots 1 & Grassroots 2?

Think of it as "soccer your way" where you can select the training frequency that suits your schedule and your child's desire to play. You can easily move between Grassroots 1 and Grassroots 2 throughout the year by registering in the different blocks or you can commit to a full season by registering for both blocks upfront. Grassroots options are based on training frequency and players are not placed based on assessments or by completing previous skill based levels. Grassroots is focused on player development all while keeping the experience engagaing, positive and fun for everyone. 

REGISTRATION

Registration is now open - please use this RAMP REGISTRATION link and select 2026-2027 Grassroots Programming. Registration for Block 2 CLOSES on July 15th, 2026.

Game days updated Wednesday, 8 July 2026 as per email from WYSA.

Practices updated Saturday, 11 July 2026 

GRASSROOTS 1 - BLOCK 2 (August & September):

Commitment: 1 x training session per week + 1 x match day experience per week 

U8 (2018) & U9 (2017) Girls: Mondays - 5.30pm to 6.30pm | training dates: July 27, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 - September 7, 14, 21, 28 | U8 & U9 match days will be Sundays starting August 2nd

U8 (2018) & U9 (2017)  Boys schedule: Mondays - 5.30pm to 6.30pm | training dates: July 27, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 - September 7, 14, 21, 28 | U8 & U9 match days will be Sundays starting August 2nd

U10 (2016) Boys schedule & U10 (2016) Girls schedule: Mondays - 6.45pm to 7.45pm | match days will be THURSDAYS

Cost: $175 | Registration is now open - please use this RAMP REGISTRATION link and select 2026-2027 Grassroots Programming. 

GRASSROOTS 2 - BLOCK 2 (August & September):

Commitment: 2 x training sessions per week + 1 x match day experience per week 

Wednesday, 5:30-6:30 PM - All age groups, boys and girls who registered for Level 2 attend this second session | training dates: July 29, August 5, 12, 19, 26 - September 2, 9, 16, 23

Cost: $350 | Registration is now open - please use this RAMP REGISTRATION link and select 2026-2027 Grassroots Programming.