U11 - Player Development & Transition Overview

At U11, players may be placed on a Division 1, Division 2, or Division 3 team. All three divisions are valued and designed to provide appropriate challenge and continued development within the age group.

Placement reflects a player’s current stage of growth and is not permanent. Children develop at different rates and movement between teams may occur throughout the season as readiness is demonstrated. Every player remains part of the club’s development framework and continues to be supported and considered for progression over time.

All U11 players continue to receive structured training, coaching support, and developmental oversight.

Division 1 players

• Train twice per week in a structured team environment

• Participate in league competition at the highest level within the age group

• Have the Monday Night Player Development Program included in their fall and winter registration

Division 2 players

• Train twice per week in a structured team environment

• Participate in league competition appropriate to their current stage

• Have the option to register separately for the Monday Night Player Development Program

Division 3 players

• Train once or twice per week in a structured team environment

• Participate in league competition appropriate to their current stage

• Have the option to register separately for the Monday Night Player Development Program

Across all divisions:

• The Age Group Technical Lead delivers sessions within the age group periodically throughout the season

• All players continue to be observed as part of the club’s year long evaluation process

• Division 2 & 3 players continue to be considered for movement or increased challenge as development and readiness are demonstrated

The goal across all divisions is steady development, confidence building, and ensuring that every player feels seen, supported, and encouraged to grow.

The Monday Night Player Development Program (PDP) is offered as an additional training opportunity. For Division 1 players, the PDP is included in their fall and winter registration. For Division 2 and Division 3 players, the PDP is optional and registered separately from team fees, allowing families flexibility when deciding whether to participate in additional development programming.

Player evaluations happen throughout the season across all training sessions, matches, and club development programming.

Decisions are based on a season long view of each player within the full age group. Evaluations are not determined by a single session or moment.

Opportunities for movement remain fluid and are guided by what best supports each child’s development, well being, and readiness for challenge.

To support transparency and growth, PoCo FC maintains internal written documentation from coaches and Age Group Technical Leads regarding individual player development.

Families who wish to receive player feedback may do so by following the Player Feedback Procedure outlined on the club website under the “Players” section.

Clear and respectful communication between families, coaches, and Technical Leads is an important part of supporting each child’s confidence and continued development.

The Player Development Pathway aligns with Canada Soccer’s Long Term Player Development principles and BC Soccer’s development framework.

The emphasis remains on holistic development, inclusion, flexibility, and preparing players for future opportunities in a supportive and developmentally appropriate environment.

U11 is a year of growth, learning, and adjustment. As a club, we are committed to ensuring that every player feels valued, supported, and connected within our community, regardless of division placement.

For questions about U11 development or the Player Development Pathway, please contact:

• Gaz Hughes

• Head of Player Development 

• gaz.hughes@pocosoccer.com