Winter Academy

VanU Academy - Winter 2024 (January/February) NOW OPEN for REGISTRATION

The Academy is VanU’s professional coaching arm.  It is responsible for program, player and coach training and development for all youth players, teams and coaches. The Academy also develops and operates additional training programs for those players wanting enhanced skills and tactical training. It operates under the oversight of the Technical Committee which reports through the chair to the Board of Directors. It is run by the Technical Director who reports to the Executive Director.  The Technical Director hires professional Technical Lead coaches and staff coaches to develop and operate its programs.  The Academy supplies professional staff to assist in the operation of First Kicks and Divisional teams. The Academy attempts to offer extra training programs for all levels of play if there is sufficient demand.  These programs are offered in the evenings during the week while in season.  It also offers week long daytime mid-term break and summer camps.
The VanU FC Winter Academy is open to all U8-U17 players (born between 2016 to 2007) depending on the academy. For insurance purposes, players must be participating in the regular season with VanU or any other club to register for our Academy.

Winter Academy Programming

This Winter VanU is pleased to be offering the following Academy programs:

• Monday Technical Skills Academy (players born 2007 - 2016)
• Monday Small Sided Games Academy (players born 2010 - 2013)
• Friday Striker Academy (players born 2008 - 2014)
• Friday Goalkeeper Academy (players born 2007-2014) 

VanU Technical Skills Academy (TSA)

This programs curriculum revolves around the technical development and skill acquisition of the individual player and its focus revolves mainly around the player and the ball. Game play may be involved but the majority of the time spent will be ball/player centred.

VanU Small Sided Games Academy (SSGA)

The small sided games Academy is based on a 4v4 or 5v5 games format. The smaller set up allows everyone to be a part of the game and coaches can guide players to learn specific skills through game based learning. 

VanU Striker Academy (SA)

This program is designed to ensure players taking part get a maximum amount of repetitions in and around goal. The curriculum will be a variety of finishing activities and game-like scenarios where they can fine tune their goal scoring skills. Training groups are fluid and players will be grouped with like minded players to maximize their experience within the program.

VanU Goalkeeper Academy (GKA)

This program is designed for trained or aspiring goalkeepers who are looking for GK based skill acquisition through high repetition, game realistic situations, and dynamic problem solving. The curriculum will involve all fundamental GK skills including (but not limited to) footwork, handling, diving, high balls/crosses, 1v1s, reaction saves, distribution, and general shot stopping techniques. The program will involve consistent training groups where individual coaches can track each players progress and give in depth feedback pertaining to their long term development.

Registration

• Please note that we do not take requests for players to be in the same group as friends.
• U11-U12 VanU+, U13 Metro teams DO NOT need to register as Winter Academy is already included in their registration fee.
• U14 Metro (for U14 Boys and Girls Metro teams) is optional in the Winter and is not included in registration fees