All U11-U12 divisional teams play eight-a-side games on half fields. Over the past few years, the worldwide training of youth soccer players has changed from getting players into an 11-a-side format as quickly as possible to a more gradual progression through the use of small-sided games. The reasons for this are varied, but among the most important is that, in smaller sided games, players are provided with more opportunities to have “touches” on the ball. By increasing the amount of ball time per player, you improve the quality of training for your players. With this in mind, BC Soccer has mandated that all U11 and U12 teams play in 8-aside leagues.

Coaches, managers, parents and participants are reminded that eight-a-side is non-competitive; teams are not playing for league titles or cups. The emphasis is on the fun and enjoyment of soccer and the full participation of all team members in every game. There are no standings kept and no Cup competition at these ages.

Leagues

When players get to U11 they leave the in-house VanU league we run at lower age groups and most enter the BC Coastal Soccer League (BCCSL). The BCCSL is for Divisional boys and girls teams playing from U11 to U18,. BCCSL consists of teams from all seven Districts in the Lower Mainland: VYSA, Burnaby District Youth Soccer, North Shore Youth Soccer Association, North Fraser Youth Soccer Association, South Fraser District Association, Fraser Valley Youth Soccer Association, and Richmond District Association. More info on the BCCSL can be found here.

U11 and U12 Division 3 teams play in a Vancouver “In-House” league that is run by the VYSA (Vancouver Youth Soccer Association) which is the District that covers the City of Vancouver.