CSA Pathway

Long Term Player Development

The Canada Soccer Pathway provides a roadmap for players of all ages and aspirations who want to play soccer at the recreation, competitive or high performance EXCEL levels, with the aim of encouraging lifelong participation. The Pathway is built around the principles of Long-Term Player Development (LTPD).

Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) is a CSA soccer-specific adaptation of the Long-Term Athlete Development model (LTAD) developed by Canadian Sport Centres. LTAD is a scientific model for periodized athlete training and development that respects and utilizes the natural stages of physical, mental, and emotional growth in athletes. Like the LTAD program, LTPD is designed to:

1. Promote lifelong enjoyment of physical activity.
2. Provide a structured player development pathway.
3. Describe best practices for elite player development.
4. Create long-term excellence.

Additional resources:

Wellness to World Cup [Download PDF]
Coaches Tool Kit Stage One – Active Start [Download PDF]
Coaches Tool Kit Stage Two – Fundamentals [Download PDF]
Coaches Tool Kit Stage Three – Learn To Train [Download PDF]
The Educated Parent [Download PDF]
Small Sided Club Development Manual [Download PDF]

For a great list of LTPD resources please check out : BC SOCCER LTPD or CANADA SOCCER PATHWAY