Year-Round Skill Training

VAFC’s Year-Round Skill Training programs provide optional training outside regular league games and team practices. Sessions give players more time with the ball, focused instruction, and opportunities to build confidence in a positive, structured environment. Training is open to all; you don't need to be on a VAFC team to enroll.


Programs are offered during the Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer, with age groups, schedules, and locations varying by season.


What Makes VAFC Skill Training Different:

  • Qualified VAFC Coaches: Sessions are led by trained staff coaches using age-appropriate instruction.
  • Strong Technical Foundations: Training focuses on ball mastery, dribbling, passing and receiving, shooting, movement, and coordination.
  • Age- and Stage-Appropriate Groups: Players are grouped to provide an appropriate balance of challenge, confidence, and enjoyment.
  • Learning Through Play: Station-based activities, game-related exercises, and small-sided games help players apply their skills in realistic situations.
  • Positive and Inclusive: Programs welcome players with different backgrounds and experience levels in a supportive learning environment.


To determine a player's age group, match the birth year on the table below:

Programs by Age Group

Specific offerings may change by season, but programs are generally organized as follows:

  • Grasshoppers (U3–U4): A playful introduction to movement, coordination, physical literacy, and basic soccer skills
  • Juniors (U6–U7): Fundamental technical skills developed through activities and small-sided games
  • Skills Centre (U8–U10): Structured technical training, station rotations, and game play focused on ball mastery, one-on-one skills, passing, receiving, and shooting
  • Individual Development (U11–U18): Supplemental technical training that helps players improve execution, decision-making, confidence, and overall game understanding
  • Goalkeeper Development: Specialized goalkeeper instruction offered during selected seasons

Who It’s For

Programs are available to U3–U18 players, depending on the season and program offered. They are suitable for new, developing, and experienced players who want to:

  • Build confidence and technical ability
  • Receive additional training outside regular team sessions
  • Get more meaningful time with the ball
  • Develop skills in an appropriately challenging environment
  • Stay active and connected to soccer throughout the year

Skill Development is designed to complement team practices and league play, not replace them.

Players need to bring cleats, shin pads, and comfortable sport shirt/shorts.

Schedule and Registration

The current Skill Development schedule is shown here. Program dates, times, locations, and eligible age groups vary by season.

Registration is completed through PowerUp. Space may be limited, so families are encouraged to register early.

YES