With the fall soccer season now just days away, South Delta United has made exciting changes to its grassroots program that will enhance the overall experience.
The younger age levels will be brought together to the same venue for what will now be known as “matchdays” — replacing the old jamboree format that took place at designated parks in Tsawwassen and Ladner. It’s another step in what the club has been working towards.
“Over the past couple of years the club has taken on new, community-focused initiatives and have done so by bringing multiple age groups together to the park for the weekend, creating a great atmosphere,” explained SDU Grass Roots Head Coach Jon Rogers. “For this, and future years, we will centre all of our Pre-school to Grade 4 games at the same location to create a buzzing atmosphere with hundreds of kids running around, living healthy and playing soccer.”
SDU Head of Coaching Development Stu Neely adds the matchday concept with a central venue will also enhance the coaching experience and the efforts for the kids to grow as players and enjoy the game.
“With the new season approaching and change in the air, the grassroots program will again be successful with such events as matchdays combined with in-house coach education on a weekly basis,” he said.
“Coaches now only need to commit to time they already know versus having to do more in an already busy personal schedule. We create the venue and the coaches, players and parents arrive to create the excitement.”
The club has also done an excellent job beyond the pitch with projects that benefit the community. These will continue in the coming campaign and will be part of the focus of grassroots’ matchdays.
“Every season, SDU has connected with local groups such as Deltassist and the BC Guidedogs. The families attending matchdays have helped fundraise thousands of dollars at our concession stands along with the generous donations of food and toys around the holiday season,” said SDU Player Development Coach Russ Heggie. “Club-community-culture has been our motto and this will continue to grow by spreading awareness amoungst our players of the importance in giving back.”
For more information on South Delta United and to register for the coming season visit southdeltaunitedsoccer.com.
