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.