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rdnewsNOW / Sheldon Spackman
Enhanced Opportunities

The Dome Red Deer launches formal soccer Academy program

May 22, 2020 | 11:06 AM

Officials with The Dome Red Deer have announced an enhancement of their soccer operations with the creation of a formal Academy program.

With the aim of supporting long term athletic development of soccer players throughout central Alberta, the expansion of West Canada Soccer Academy, the Dome’s in-house soccer program, is hoped to become a full academy program providing the optimum environment for players to maximize their potential in soccer.

Officials say the purpose of the Academy program is to provide talented female and male players in central Alberta with a structured pathway towards college, university and full time playing opportunities.

West Canada Soccer Academy is a sanctioned member of the Central Alberta Soccer Association (CASA) with its Academy curriculum aligning with Canada Soccer’s Long Term Player Development model.

Dome officials say the Academy is dedicated to its teams representing central Alberta at the highest level of competition attainable within the province.

In order to achieve that, official say their strategy is to compete in the Alberta Player Development Program as a certified National Youth Club Licence holder within three years.

The Dome Red Deer’s 12 month player centred holistic program provides age appropriate curriculums in the key areas of lifestyle, mental, physical, tactical, and technical.

Located at the Dome Red Deer, the Academy program will be directed by Jason Blake, a UEFA Pro Licence qualified coach and previous Academy Director of Burnley Football Club in the English Premier League.

Any player, parent or coach interested to learn more about the Academy program is encouraged to register by clicking here.

Further updates regarding the West Canada Soccer Academy program are anticipated in the near future.