Development Phase
As players move from the Foundation Phase (U9–U12) into the Development Phase (U13–U15), the focus begins to shift toward applying what’s been learned in more demanding and outcome-driven environments. The game gets faster, more physical, and tactically demanding.
Here, the emphasis begins to include outcomes; not just individual outcomes like finishing chances or defending effectively, but team-based results such as executing game plans, managing moments, and understanding roles within a system. Training still nurtures technical quality, but now asks players to apply their skills with purpose under pressure, in game-real scenarios, and often with measurable targets.
Players start to experience a more competitive rhythm:
- position-specific learning,
- tactical awareness,
- performance benchmarks, and
- an introduction to accountability through results.
They’re still developing, but with clearer expectations, stronger coaching feedback, and a growing understanding that the game is both art and strategy.
This transition from brilliant basics to purposeful outcomes is intentional. It reflects the natural progression of the game and ensures our players are not only equipped with strong fundamentals but also prepared to compete, problem-solve, and lead as they approach the Performance and Pro-Am levels.
At Foothills, we don’t rush development, we respect the journey. Every phase has its place, and every player moves forward with a foundation they can trust, and a future they can aspire toward. In the Development Phase, we uphold the belief that every player is unique and possesses untapped potential.
- Pricing is dependent on the program(s) you choose based on your player’s age, development stage and soccer goals.
- Please refer to our Program Guide here.
- Outdoor season starts April 13, 2026.
- Team practices and academy program sessions are held at community fields in South Calgary.
- For all dates and times, please view our Program Guide.
- Click here to review the Program Guide.
- Click here to register.
- Foothills is a Club for Everyone. Please read our Program Guide to learn about all the programs we offer for all ages, development stages and soccer ambitions.
- If you haven’t done so previously, you will need to set up your membership in PowerUp.
- IMPORTANT: When registering, be sure to set up your Parent Profile first, then “add a family member” and add each child. All programs available for registration will show automatically for each child. A player cannot be entered into the system more than once. If you encounter an error or require assistance, please contact admin@gofoothills.ca.
- Watch our “How to Register” video here.
Foothills and the Alberta Player Development League (APDL)
Since joining the APDL in 2021, Foothills has redefined what success looks like in Alberta. With a long-standing culture of development and high performance, our boys and girls APDL teams have won multiple league titles, provincial championships, and earned national recognition for their style of play, competitiveness, and resilience, excelling not only in Tier 1 but also standing out as the most successful Tier 2/3 club. Our success underscores our commitment to fostering excellence across all ages and skill levels. Whether in Tier 1 or the equally important Tier 2/3, our dedication to player development and success remains consistent, creating a comprehensive and inclusive pathway for soccer enthusiasts at every level.
Phase Highlights and Key Principles
Advanced Skill Development:
- Building on the foundation laid in earlier stages, our program focuses on refining and advancing individual technical skills.
- Position-specific training to enhance players’ proficiency in their chosen roles on the field.
Tactical Awareness:
- Introduce and reinforce advanced tactical concepts such as team formations, transitional play, and situational awareness.
- Small-sided games and drills that encourage players to apply tactical knowledge in dynamic scenarios.
Leadership and Communication:
- Cultivate leadership qualities and effective communication skills on and off the field.
- Empower players to take on roles as mentors and leaders within the team environment.
Competitive Environment:
- Exposure to a more competitive playing environment that challenges players to elevate their performance.
- Participation in local and regional competitions to test skills and foster a sense of healthy competition.
Our Coaches
Our coaching staff in the Development Phase consists of experienced and licensed coaches dedicated to the development of young talents. They provide mentorship, guidance, and a positive learning atmosphere, ensuring that each player reaches their full potential.
Trades Program
The Tier 1 – 3 Development Phase curriculum includes enrollment in our Trades Program.
The Program comprises six, two-hour sessions that integrate technical, fitness, and performance aspects to holistically develop young athletes.
Technical: Concentrates on refining players’ skills in critical areas, encompassing 1v1 and 2v2 attacking. Sessions are built around position-specific traits stemming from KPI traits our U13+ teams explore in video analysis. Whether a striker, defender, mid, or goalie, sessions will incorporate individual traits for player success.
Performance: Our Performance department is dedicated to sculpting well-rounded athletes. This season, we’ve expanded the program to include sessions on essential facets such as nutrition, recovery, and mental skills. Additionally, the Performance team facilitates physical testing, encompassing speed assessments, change of direction evaluations, and strength training.
Physical Fitness: Players complete a battery of tests designed to give a complete picture of an athlete’s fitness level and competence. Tests include:
- 30m Sprint. Evaluates an athlete’s top speed.
- Broad Jump. Measures lower body power and strength.
- 5-10-5 Pro Agility Tet. Assesses a player’s agility and ability to change direction at maximum speed.
- Yoyo Intermittent Recovery Test. A football/soccer-specific assessment that quantifies a player’s aerobic endurance.
Close to the end of the season, our Performance Department team compiles the data and shares age-specific reports with the Academy. This allows the players to compare their individual score to the general age group.
Player Pathway
As players progress through the Development Phase, they gain the tools and experience needed to transition seamlessly to higher levels of competition. The focus on technical mastery, tactical understanding, and personal growth prepares them for success in the upcoming stages of their soccer journey.
