A: In addition to the U5, U7 and U9 Community Association Soccer there are also U7 and U9 D-Leagues that are ran by Saskatoon Youth Soccer through its five Zones. It is an option for young soccer players who are looking to invest more time in learning the fundamentals of the game. This is done by offering a 2:1 practice to game ratio.
Q: Why were the D Leagues formed?
A: The Technical Directors of the Saskatoon Youth Soccer Zones found that a large majority of players entering SYSI’s youth system lack the technical skills that they should have acquired by age 10. This is largely because of the lack of adequate practice to game ratios and/or opportunities to be guided by highly qualified coaches who understand player development. The objective of the D-Leagues is to provide players with a solid fundamental base on which they can build when they graduate to the youth system (U11). It was also found that a “one fits all” program is not necessarily the best way to promote the development of young players, as they have different levels of commitment and a variety of reasons for participating.
Q: Does it cost more to participate in the D leagues than in the Community Association (ca) Leagues?
A: Yes, typically the Zone fees are higher than the CA fees because the Zones will have paid Technical Directors that oversee the programs and additional practice opportunities. The practice to game ratio is also higher than the community association leagues which also contribute to higher facility rental costs. The Zones will provide game uniforms as part of the registration fees.
Q: Can Development League teams participate in Mini Soccer Tournaments?
A: Yes. All SYSI development league players are appropriately registered with the SYSI and SSA and therefore are eligible for all sanctioned soccer events
Q: How does a player register with a D-League team?
A: Though U7 and U9 players are not bound to zone boundaries, it is recommended that you first, determine the Zone your Community Association is affiliated under, and then register with your Zone.
Q: Can a player register on a Community League team as well as a Zone D-League team?
A: There are no restrictions for playing in both and the player may be register in both leagues. The player and parent must take into consideration the number of training sessions and games that will take place on a weekly basis between the two and decide as to how much is safe for the player.