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IMPORTANT INFO - Outlining the SSA Approach to CSA Age Classification Changes for Club Nationals
2016-06-27
As many of you will be aware, Canada Soccer (CSA) has made changes to the youth age classifications for the National Club Championships. Beginning in 2017, youth National Club Championships will be played at Under 15 and Under 17 rather than the present age classifications Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18.
Saskatchewan teams qualify for the National Club Championships via the Premier Soccer League (PSL). As presented through the Competitive Stream Planning Process, the SSA will adjust age classifications in the PSL to align with changes made by CSA. Starting in 2017, PSL competition will be offered in Under 15 and Under 17 divisions, as well as an Under 13/14 developmental division. For more information on the new PSL structure and age classifications, please visit the Competitive Stream Plan homepage.
SSA is currently assessing whether any other age classification changes outside of the PSL should be considered.
It is important that this matter be considered carefully before making any decisions. Due to the time needed to explore the best direction, no changes will take place to age classifications at the provincial level during the 2016-17 indoor season. Should any changes be planned for the 2017 outdoor season, beyond those already in place within the PSL, Member Organizations will be notified by January 31, 2017.
Some particular items that have been identified for consideration include:
Through discussion we will determine the best direction for all participants with a goal to clarify and maintain alignment with age classifications province wide.
Should you require further information or wish to discuss changes in age classification and their potential impact on soccer in Saskatchewan, please contact:
Dave Nutt
Director of Soccer Operations
Saskatchewan Soccer Association
P: 306-975-0826
E: d.nutt@sasksoccer.com
Saskatchewan teams qualify for the National Club Championships via the Premier Soccer League (PSL). As presented through the Competitive Stream Planning Process, the SSA will adjust age classifications in the PSL to align with changes made by CSA. Starting in 2017, PSL competition will be offered in Under 15 and Under 17 divisions, as well as an Under 13/14 developmental division. For more information on the new PSL structure and age classifications, please visit the Competitive Stream Plan homepage.
SSA is currently assessing whether any other age classification changes outside of the PSL should be considered.
It is important that this matter be considered carefully before making any decisions. Due to the time needed to explore the best direction, no changes will take place to age classifications at the provincial level during the 2016-17 indoor season. Should any changes be planned for the 2017 outdoor season, beyond those already in place within the PSL, Member Organizations will be notified by January 31, 2017.
Some particular items that have been identified for consideration include:
- The change made by the CSA does not impact the vast majority of teams in the province.
- Making a change to odd numbered, two-year age bands (i.e. U5, U7, U9, U11, U13, U15, and U17) does not align well to the recommendations of the Long Term Player Development Model, particularly in the 11-13 ages and the transition from small-sided to 11-aside soccer.
- A change to odd numbered years would have a significant impact on the traditional U18 age classification, particularly in communities that do not provide adult soccer.
Through discussion we will determine the best direction for all participants with a goal to clarify and maintain alignment with age classifications province wide.
Should you require further information or wish to discuss changes in age classification and their potential impact on soccer in Saskatchewan, please contact:
Dave Nutt
Director of Soccer Operations
Saskatchewan Soccer Association
P: 306-975-0826
E: d.nutt@sasksoccer.com