The face of Canadian sport will be undergoing dramatic change in the coming years as LTPD / LTAD takes hold and begins to change the way we all think about sport, recreation and physical activity programs.
Through growth and development research findings, LTPD / LTAD will help to create within LYUSA a consistent and clear player development pathway. Subsequently coach and administrator development pathways will also evolve. This player development pathway will be based on competition and training that is developmentally appropriate for the level of readiness of the participant.
At the forefront of an appropriate player development pathway is a shift at the introductory and intermediate levels of participation to more preparation and less outcome-oriented competition. A progressive and phased approach to long-term development will see the primary emphasis initially be on individual skill development with team success (i.e., performance outcome) gradually playing a larger role over time.
For efficiency and clarity, delivery of the player development pathway will be undertaken according to clear objectives, providing a structure for successfully steering needed resources. This means that LTPD / LTAD will build from the bottom up. LUYSA will begin with changes to its initial and introductory programs and progress upward through the age ranges over the next number of years. It is anticipated that this ambitious Club Development Model will take 10 to 15 years to implement properly.
For many youngsters and their parents, soccer is the family’s first experience with organized sport. LUYSA sees our role in introducing sport to youth as vital and serious. Although many of our participants may move on to other sports or recreational pursuits, we must still ensure that we have done everything possible to create competent and confident movers. In return, the children of our community will have more opportunity for athletic success and activity longevity – be it in soccer or some other sport. Our desire is to see more young people get active and stay active for life.
The principles and philosophies of LTPD / LTAD promote both a commitment and passion to being active for life while at the same time allowing each individual to excel and reach his potential as a soccer player.
View all articles on LPTD/LPAD or go to Development>LTPD/LTAD in the top menu
