FAQs

Have a question about the LCYSA Development Program?

Here are answers to some of the most common questions families ask.

 

1. Understanding the Pathway

What is Grassroots soccer?

Grassroots soccer includes all players U4–U13 and focuses on fun, learning, participation, and skill development, not results. It provides the foundation for every player — helping them build coordination, confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong love for the game.

Both House and Development soccer are part of the Grassroots stage.

 

What is the player pathway in Lake Country?

LCYSA follows Canada Soccer’s Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) model, which guides players through age-appropriate stages:

• U5–U6 – District of Lake Country Soccer Program: Introductory play focused on fun and movement.

• U7–U18 House Soccer: Community-based teams emphasizing inclusion, teamwork, and enjoyment for all players.

• U10–U13 Development Program: For players who show both ability and commitment, offering structured training and local competition.

• U14+ Select (Competitive) Soccer: LCYSA does not currently field Select teams, but Development players can pursue opportunities through regional or club programs in the Okanagan.

This pathway helps every player find the right level of play within a supportive, community-focused environment.

 

What is Development soccer?

Development soccer is part of the Grassroots stage and bridges the gap between House and Competitive soccer for players U10–U13.

It’s designed for motivated players who demonstrate both ability and commitment, offering increased training, purposeful competition, and a positive, player-centred environment that emphasizes learning, teamwork, and enjoyment of the game.

Evaluations typically begin at the U9 level, following the U9 spring season, to identify players for the upcoming U10 Development division in COYSA.

 

What opportunities exist after the Development Program?

As players reach U14, they can continue in LCYSA’s House program or pursue regional or club-level opportunities if they wish to play competitively.

The Development Program prepares players for that next step by building confidence, skill, and game understanding.

 

2. Evaluations & Team Formation

Who organizes and runs evaluations?

Evaluations are coordinated by the LCYSA Development Committee and run by volunteers, with player assessments completed by independent evaluators to ensure fair and consistent selections.

Evaluators assess players on technical skill, game understanding, coachability, and attitude to identify those best suited for a more advanced training environment.

 

When do evaluations begin for new U10 teams?

Evaluations start at the U9 level, following the U9 spring season, to select players for the U10 Development team.

This team plays in the COYSA fall league as U9, then in the spring league the following year as U10.

Selections prioritize players born in the team’s designated age year to support long-term development and sustainable team pathways.

 

What factors determine if a Development team can be fielded?

Before evaluations, the Development Committee reviews player registration, coach availability, and program capacity with the Club.

Teams are only fielded when there are enough players and volunteers to provide a meaningful, sustainable experience.
 

What happens if not enough players register for evaluations?

Even after a team is approved, tryouts may be canceled if too few players register for fair evaluations.

This ensures every Development team has a proper roster size and competitive balance, supporting a positive experience for all players.

 

Can my player be evaluated for an older age group?

If a Development team exists in your player’s age group, they are not eligible to be evaluated for an older team. Keeping players within their age group supports balanced physical, social, and emotional development and supports consistent team development.

If no team exists at their age group, they may be evaluated for a team one year older; requests to move up more than one year require Club approval.

 

What if my player can’t attend the evaluation?

If your player cannot attend due to illness or travel, contact the Development Committee before the evaluation period to discuss options.

 

Is there a registration fee for evaluations?

Yes. A non-refundable fee applies to all participants, even if a team is canceled due to low registration numbers.

 

3. Commitment & Logistics

What is the time and travel commitment?

Players typically train twice per week, with weekend league games.

All matches are within the Central Okanagan, with occasional tournaments elsewhere in BC.

 

What does it cost to participate?

Program fees vary by season. For reference, the most recent fee was about $350, covering league registration, two tournaments, and indoor training.

Additional team expenses — such as indoor league fees, apparel, or extra tournaments — are managed directly by each team.

 

What happens if my player isn’t selected?

Players not placed on a team may be invited to join as a Training Player (AP), provided they continue playing in LCYSA’s House program.

All players are encouraged to keep developing their skills and re-evaluate in future seasons.

 

What is a Training Player (AP)?

Training Players join Development practices and may be invited to games when roster space allows.

It’s a valuable way to stay connected, gain experience, and continue improving alongside teammates.

 

What are the expectations for players and families?

Players are expected to:

• Attend practices and games regularly

• Demonstrate effort, teamwork, and a positive attitude

• Show respect for coaches, teammates, referees, and opponents
   

Families are encouraged to:

• Support the program’s values and sportsmanship

• Communicate proactively about absences

• Help maintain a positive, respectful team environment

 

Can my player participate in other sports?

Yes. LCYSA encourages multi-sport participation to support well-rounded athletic development.
Players should communicate scheduling conflicts early so coaches can plan accordingly.