Ontario Soccer Grassroots Pilot Project Request Form Logo
  • Ontario Soccer Grassroots Pilot Project Request Form

  • Description: 

    Overview of the Pilot Project Program and Its Goals

    Ontario Soccer's Pilot Project Program is designed to explore and evaluate innovative match formats and festival structures that align with our long-term player development (LTPD) principles. By running sanctioned pilot projects, Ontario Soccer aims to:

    • Test new game formats, rules, or event structures that promote skill development, player enjoyment, and inclusivity.
    • Gather insights through district and club-led events to assess the effectiveness of adaptations in real-world environments.
    • Create evidence-based recommendations to refine Grassroots and Soccer for Life programs and enhance the player experience.
    • Foster collaboration between clubs, districts, and Ontario Soccer in driving the future of the game.
    • These pilot projects are critical in ensuring that Ontario Soccer remains a leader in innovative and player-centered approaches, helping players of all ages and abilities reach their potential.

    District and/or Club Participation Benefits

    • Innovation Leadership: Position your district or club as a forward-thinking leader in player development, directly contributing to the evolution of soccer in Ontario.
    • Enhanced Club Reputation: Gain recognition within your district and the broader soccer community by hosting high-quality, sanctioned pilot events.
    • Enhanced District Reputation: Gain recognition within Ontario and the broader soccer community by hosting high-quality, sanctioned pilot events.
    • Exclusive Resources and Support: Receive Ontario Soccer’s support, including access to resources such as branded materials, pre-designed surveys, and technical guidance.
    • Player Development Focus: Provide your players with a unique developmental opportunity by participating in cutting-edge game formats and festival experiences.
    • Learning Opportunity for Coaches: Coaches gain hands-on experience with new methodologies and formats, broadening their understanding of player development strategies.
    • Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with other clubs, districts, and Ontario Soccer staff, fostering stronger connections across the soccer community.
    • Data-Driven Insights: Access feedback and data from the event, including surveys and post-event analysis, to help inform your club’s programming decisions.
    • Community Engagement: Engage your players, parents, and coaches in a forward-thinking initiative, boosting enthusiasm and participation in district and/or club activities.
    • Recognition from Ontario Soccer: Approved districts or clubs may be highlighted in Ontario Soccer communications, newsletters, or social media as contributors to the pilot project program.
    • Contribution to the Game’s Growth: Be part of a province-wide effort to innovate and adapt soccer to better serve players of all ages and abilities, leaving a lasting legacy.

    Note: Approval is contingent on meeting all requirements listed below.

  • District Information

  • Club Information

  • Main Contact Person

  • Technical Lead

  • Pilot Project Details

  • 2025 Pilot Project Priorities

    U8 Corner Kick Pilot Project – Phase Two
    Ontario Soccer is launching Phase Two of the U8 Corner Kick Pilot Project, building on insights from the first phase. Complete report on phase one of the U8 Corner Kick Pilot can be found HERE. This initiative continues to explore how corner kicks influence game flow, player decision-making, and skill development at the Under-8 level. Phase Two will introduce corner kick placement five (5) yards down the sideline from the corner to assess its impact on restart efficiency and match dynamics for a full season compared to the previously tested half season introduction.

    Who Can Participate?
    Districts running a U8 Festival season interested in being part of the pilot project must meet the following requirements:
         ✔ Age Group: U8 Male and Female.
         ✔ Commitment: Implement the pilot format for a full season.
         ✔ Game Footage: Matches must be recorded and shared with Ontario Soccer
             (minimum of four male and four female matches).
         ✔ Coaches, players, and parents will be asked to share feedback
             through short surveys.
         ✔ Coaches webinar on the adapted rules led by Ontario Soccer.
         ✔ Match official webinar on the adapted rules led by Ontario Soccer.

    Why Participate?
    By taking part in this pilot, your district and club will contribute to shaping evidence-based decisions for U8 game formats in Ontario, ensuring they best support player development.

    If your district is interested, please complete the form. Ontario Soccer will follow up with further details on implementation and reporting expectations.

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