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Do you know that playing soccer can burn 476 calories in one hour? Soccer is one of the most engaging and refreshing sports. Besides improving your cardiovascular health, it also lowers cholesterol, builds up strength and flexibility, and increases your endurance. Ottawa has a vibrant soccer scene, but which club is right for you? Our health experts have compiled a list of the best soccer clubs in Ottawa.
The criteria for this list encompasses several factors, such as the club’s reputation, history, quality of coaching and training programs, the level of competition, the facilities and Infrastructure, as well as the overall commitment to player development. We also considered the feedback and testimonials from current and former players and the league’s track record of success in producing talented athletes.
It must also be noted that each type of soccer club has a tier where you can train for different types of soccer. These tiers include recreational, competitive, and professional soccer games.
Choose the best soccer club according to your sports interest and health goals from the below list. Whether an experienced soccer player or a beginner, you will find something to feel invigorated and inspired.
Contact Info
Address:
2451 Riverside Dr., Ottawa, ON K1H 7X7, Canada
Phone
+1613-263-1882
What are the qualities of beginner-friendly soccer academies?
Beginner-friendly soccer academies particularly have one mission in mind, i.e. to seek out and nurture raw talent. The professional coaches train the beginners by offering training sessions all year round with their spring, summer and winter programs so that the beginners can easily progress their skills. These strategically planned courses improve soccer skills and allow the trainees to have fun.
What did we like about this club?
If you are looking for the best soccer academy for beginners in Ottawa, you must visit Young Stars Soccer Academy. On our visit, we learned that the academy offered fun-filled training programs for beginners in Ottawa throughout the year. We noticed that the academy was quite spacious, with extensive indoor and outdoor facilities. There was a specialized training program for beginners emphasizing ball control, passing and receiving, speed and agility, shooting and awareness, and advanced individual moves.
The academy had players with different levels of skills. All of them had motivation and enthusiasm for the game. We observed that the coaches were non-judgmental. They were well trained and showed a very positive and encouraging attitude towards the players.
The academy has a collaboration with Ottawa Recreational Soccer League (ORSL). This partnership can prove to be advantageous for beginners. They can enjoy weekly indoor and outdoor games and elite training sessions at a very affordable price.
Programs and Leagues
Pre-Academy
This program is about teaching your children the basics of soccer and having fun. Some specific skills are also targeted in this program, such as:
- Ball Control
- Passing & Receiving
- Speed & Agility
- Shooting & Awareness
- Advanced Individual moves
- On & Off the ball movement
First Touch Program
This is a weekly program for 4–5 years old children with one-hour sessions. This program mainly focuses on beginner and entry-level soccer skill development.
Winter Indoor League & Pre-Academy
This program includes weekly indoor games with a pre-academy soccer skill development program. It is for both boys and girls ages 6—14.
Summer League & Pre-Academy
The program focuses on the summer league. Special family discounts will also be provided. Your child will be provided with a uniform, academy training shirt, game jersey, shorts, and socks.
Elite Academy program
This program focuses on searching for and polishing raw talent. There is a particular emphasis on training the players and polishing their skills to the next level, mainly focusing on discipline, attitude, and overall state of mind. Players who excel in the Elite Academy can play for the competitive teams as part of the EODSA, ERSL, EDL, and OCFL.
Sport Psychology program
The focus of this program is on group workshops and one on one sessions with individuals to enhance their skills.
Leagues
- Young stars soccer academy
- Ottawa recreational soccer league
- Functional training academy
Fees
Pros
- Excellent environment
- Age-specific and specialized training
- Motivating coaches
Fees
- First touch program—$175
- Winter indoor league & pre-academy— $225
- Summer league & pre-academy–$295
Contact Info
Address:
2075 Trim Rd, Orléans, ON K4A 3R2, Canada
Phone: +16135737627
Email: admin@ottawatfc.com
What is Competitive Soccer?
This type of soccer is also referred to as “club” or “travel” soccer. The leagues of teams from independent clubs play competitive soccer. We can differentiate competitive soccer from recreational soccer based on the following aspects:
- It is the responsibility of the club to pay the coaches. The coaches should be licensed.
- The coaches receive specialized training in player development.
- The player can secure a space in the team only after trials.
- The team has to participate in year-round activities, while in recreational soccer, you have to sign up for the activities each season.
What did we like about this place?
All the players interested in top-notch training for competitive soccer must visit this club. On our visit, we observed that the players were quite hardworking and they had good work ethics. The coaches were highly encouraging too.
The club has also been organizing competitive programs for all age groups. They have training programs for juniors as well as adults.
Another interesting observation was regarding women who were highly motivated during the practice. The women players from this club keenly participate in the competitive recreational program and Women’s Premier League regularly.
Programs and Leagues
U6-U12 Half-Day Morning Summer Camp
The 5-day exciting soccer summer camp is open for all U6-U12 players. The nationally licensed coaches and other professional university players train the children. This specifically designed summer camp develops the skills and boosts their confidence by grouping them in relevant groups.
U5-U8 Skills Centre Grassroots Program
This is a safe, fun-filled and social program for your child, introducing them to the game’s basics.
U13-U18 Elite Academy Program
This program is for all the players following the talented pathway. During this program, the skills of the students are polished, and they are trained to compete at the highest youth levels in the province and country.
OSCL Women’s Premier League
It is a program for those who want regular training and proper coaching. Players maintain their physical and psychological fitness by focusing on game strategies, training and game routines.
Leagues
- Young stars soccer academy
- Ottawa recreational soccer league
- Functional training academy
Pros
- They provide top-level coaching.
- A very healthy sports environment for the players.
- Provincially and nationally accredited club.
Fees
- Grass root program— $265/player + $50 volunteer fee
- New player evaluation fee (if required): $55.00 (non-refundable)
- Base competitive player Registration Fee: $505.00
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Sports Specialist
Contact Info
Address:
1625 Bank St, suite 2, Ottawa, ON K1H 7Y9, Canada
Email: registrar@comeplaysoccer.com
Phone: +1613-523-0826
What is recreational soccer?
Recreational soccer is for all those players and people out there who want to play this sport for fun and recreation. It is played in a relaxed and non-competitive environment, without pressure on the players. Recreational teams receive training once or twice a week for an hour. The training is age appropriate too.
What did we like about this place?
While exploring this club, we discovered that it is an ideal location for engaging in recreational soccer. The club has a 35’×60′ soccer training facility on the second floor of the Disalvo Sports store. People of all age groups were coming to get training in this specified training area. They were socializing and having fun at the same time. The club has an excellent training facility and experienced coaches.
Their specialized Introduction to the soccer program develops the interest of the kids in soccer. The coaches train the players in a fun-filled, relaxing environment which makes it a recreational activity for the player.
The club offers a specifically designed Summer 2023 soccer skills program and private sessions for the whole family. You can also book the training area for private games with the family during the summer holidays.
Programs and Leagues
Summer 2023 Recreational Soccer
This is a specially designed summer course which caters to all age groups.
Introduction to Soccer
It is a program for all children under the age of 6. Your children are going to have lots of fun-filled activities. They will develop coordination, gross motor control, movement and social skills. This program is for all those kids who want to take part in sports at a younger age.
Private Sessions
The club allows you to avail the private sessions with highly experienced coaches. Pitch bookings are also available for personal and team use.
Leagues
- Young stars soccer academy
- Ottawa recreational soccer league
- Functional training academy
Pros
- Experienced and encouraging trainers
- A very friendly environment
Fees
- Summer course for recreational soccer —$50 per player
- Hourly rates— $99.99
- You can avail discounts on off-peak hours also
Contact Info
Address:
5510 Canotek Rd Unit #1, Gloucester, ON K1J 9J4, Canada
Phone: 613-749-4029
Several factors must be kept in mind while you are choosing the best soccer club for kids. You must choose a club which has competent coaches. Well-trained and competent trainers not only instill a positive mindset in your child but also train them in different kinds of techniques. The club should also provide your child with excellent facilities.
Resources and Infrastructure play a very important role in effective training. The club should train children with all levels of abilities and skills. A club must have flexible training schedules to cater to the students. Gloucester Dragons Soccer Club is the best choice according to the above-mentioned criteria.
What did we like about this place?
The place is perfect for beginners. A highly encouraging atmosphere boosts the players’ morale, and then they acquire the basic training of soccer. A physiotherapist is available 25/7 at the club, which looks after all kinds of injuries during the game.
There are three different training programs for the youth. These include an Active Start Program for children aged 4-7, a Fundamental Program for 7-8 years old, and a third program for children aged 9-18. You can also sign up for one-one coaching to get individual coaching sessions. The club is well-equipped and has all the necessary training equipment.
Programs and Leagues
Active Start Program
This program is for children who are 4-6 years old. This program has a 60-minute session with 3-4 rotations. Skill-learning games and the theme of the week are all part of this program. These sessions always require a lead coach, a board volunteer, and 3-4 game leaders.
Fundamentals For Ages 7–8
It is a 90-min fun-filled session for girls aged 7-8 years.
Learn to Train Program
This course has two sessions. In the practice session, the players play a match on the home field. The coach supervises the session. In the second game night session, the players take part in an officiated match on different fields.
Leagues
- Young stars soccer academy
- Ottawa recreational soccer league
- Functional training academy
Fees
- Summer course for recreational soccer —$50 per player
- Hourly rates— $99.99
- You can avail discounts on off-peak hours also
Contact Info
Address
523 St Anthony St, Ottawa, ON K1R 6Z9, Canada
Phone: +1613-233-1083
What did we like about this club?
While exploring this club, we discovered that it is an ideal location for engaging in recreational soccer. The club has a 35’×60′ soccer training facility on the second floor of the Disalvo Sports store. People of all age groups were coming to get training in this specified training area. They were socializing and having fun at the same time. The club has an excellent training facility and experienced coaches.
Their specialized Introduction to the soccer program develops the interest of the kids in soccer. The coaches train the players in a fun-filled, relaxing environment which makes it a recreational activity for the player.
The club offers a specifically designed Summer 2023 soccer skills program and private sessions for the whole family. You can also book the training area for private games with the family during the summer holidays.
Programs and Leagues
Academy Competitive Program
This program is for all the dedicated and competitive 7-18 years old players. The well-trained and motivated coaching staff helps the players to play at the university, professional and international levels.
Azzuri Competitive Teams
The players who want to join the Eastern Ontario Soccer League (EOSL) at the District and Development level should enroll themselves in this program.
Intro to Soccer Program
It is for ages 3 to 12 years. It is the best program for kids who are new to soccer. The main focus in this program is on ball control, dribbling, passing and shooting the ball, age-appropriate activities and games.
Competitive Teams Program
There is a special focus on advanced technical skills, which include moves, turns, ball control and distribution.
Training to Compete Program
The purpose of this program is technique refinement, defensive block and various methods of attacking.
Leagues
- Young stars soccer academy
- Ottawa recreational soccer league
- Functional training academy
Pros
- A great place for playing competitive soccer
- The coaches specifically emphasize the refinement of skills
- Clean venue and easy-to-access parking.
Fees
- House league game day program –$70
- Customized fee plans for all other programs.
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From diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation, we're here to support you every step of the way.
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Physiotherapist
Contact Info
Address
Ottawa Internationals Soccer Club
1237 Newmarket St. Ottawa, ON K1B 5N6
Phone: 613-745-7400
When you are choosing a soccer program for adult players, the following factors should be considered. There should be well-trained coaches. The club must offer top-notch resources and amenities for adults. The club must train adults with all levels of abilities and skills. In addition, the club must have flexible training schedules to cater to the working people. Ottawa Internationals Soccer Club is the best choice for adults according to the above-mentioned criteria.
What did we like about this club?
If you are looking for the best soccer club in Ottawa for adults, Ottawa International Soccer Club is your go-to place. It is an excellent community-based soccer club with a wide range of programs for adults. The coaching staff is well-trained. The club and management work hard on the development of the skills of the players.
There are specialized programs for women which focus on skills and fitness and prepare them to play in recreational and competitive leagues. The club also has various programs for men. Our experts were impressed by the facilities of the club, which included turf fields, yoga and weightlifting rooms.
Facilities
- Turf field
- Futsal
- A room for weightlifting
- A spacious room for yoga
- Dance studio
Programs and Leagues
- Program for Women
- Programs for Men
- Recreational League for Adults
- Training Program for Adults
- Competitive Program for Adults
Pros
- A very friendly environment
- Dedicated coaches.
- The club provides great opportunities for adults.
Fees
- Adult Programs: $56.50
- The Recreational League for adults: $260 (grass)
- The Recreational League for adults: $325 (turf)
Contact Info
Address
1927 Richardson Side Rd, Kanata, ON K2K 1X4, Canada
Phone: +1613-831-1135
What is Developmental Soccer?
This type of soccer mainly focuses on skill development. The coaches train the players in such a way that they develop a sense of the game with an emphasis on individual and teamwork. Developmental soccer is mainly for children with ages 9 to 12.
This type of soccer is not for players with a high skill level; rather, the focus in developmental soccer is more on passionate and committed players. The coaches develop and polish the skills of all such players focusing more on achieving goals and developing skills rather than just winning.
What did we like about this club?
The first thing that we noticed when we visited the club was its great environment. The outstanding coaches and the facilities make it one of the best developmental soccer clubs in Ottawa.
The club offers different training and developmental programs, which include Wee Warriors, Summer Skill Development Programs, Volta Youth Recreation League, and Outdoor Recreation League, at very affordable rates. A dedicated and committed coaching staff was there to facilitate the children. Everyone seemed to enjoy training, and it looked like a fantastic community.
Programs and Leagues
Wee Warriors
The main target of this summer soccer camp is to offer fun activities for children, particularly focusing on the development of their soccer skills.
Summer Program for 9–12-Year-Old Children
This program is an introduction to specific soccer skills with a particular focus on dribbling, agility, balance and coordination.
Pros
- The professional atmosphere on and off the field
- Well trained coaches
- Well organized programs
Fees
- U9-U10 —$1015
- U11-U12—$1050
- Summer Skills Development Program—$180
- Volta Youth Recreation League– $275
Conclusion
Ottawa has some of the best soccer clubs. Choose wisely according to your needs from the above-mentioned list. These soccer clubs are open to all kinds of players, from beginners to experienced players. Choose your favourite soccer club, get fit and have fun.
FAQS
The Ottawa Soccer team is named Atlético. This team represents the professional soccer club of Canada. The team plays in the Canadian Premier League and gives tough competition to its opponents.
The most popular sport in Canada is hockey, with a total of seven national-level hockey teams. If we compare hockey with soccer, soccer has a total of five teams only in Canada, but based on attendance, soccer indeed beats hockey in popularity.
League 1 Ontario is a senior soccer league based in Ottawa. The ultimate goal of this league is to work for the progress and development of the future stars of Canada. This league creates a link between the beginner and the professional game. This league is also approved and affiliated with the Ontario Soccer Association.
Canada’s soccer team was founded in 1924. Équipe du Canada de soccer masculin is the men’s national soccer team of Canada. This team represents Canada in International soccer competitions.