ASSESSMENT & PLAYER PLACEMENT POLICY

At WIA, our goal is to ensure that every player is placed in an environment that supports their development, fosters a love for the game, and serves the long-term success of both the player and the club.

1. Purpose of Assessments

Player assessments are conducted to evaluate each athlete’s technical skills, tactical understanding, physical ability, and mental approach to the game. These assessments help us place players in the most appropriate training and competitive environment.

2. Assessment Criteria

In line with best practices (such as the “ABCD-123” framework used by clubs informed by LTPD), our evaluations consider multiple dimensions, including:

• Athleticism: Speed, strength, agility, coordination
• Ball Control: Dribbling, passing, receiving, with control at varying speeds and angles
• Decision-Making & Tactical Awareness: Situational awareness, off-the-ball movement, positioning
• Character & Coachability: Motivation, responsiveness to coaching, teamwork
• Contextual Application: Performance in 1v1, 2v1/1v2, and small-sided game situations

3. Alignment with Grassroots Environment

We structure our assessments consistently with Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards, especially for U13 and below, including using small-sided formats (e.g., 3v3, 5v5), ensuring fair and balanced playing time during evaluation sessions, and facilitating a fun, inclusive environment that emphasizes player development over competition.

4. Assessment Process

Formal Sessions: Conducted periodically using small-sided games and structured drills reflective of LTPD ideologies.

Ongoing Observation: Coaches observe players across practices and matches, not relying solely on assessment days to inform placement decisions.

Holistic Evaluation: Combines physical, technical, tactical, and psychosocial factors for a comprehensive view of each player’s readiness.

3. Decision Authority

The Technical Director reserves the right to place players where they believe is in the best interest of both the player and the club.

While we value feedback from players and parents, final placement decisions rest solely with the club and are not negotiable.

4. Player Movement

Player placements are not guaranteed for an entire season or year. Players may be moved between teams at any time if it is determined that a different placement will better support their development or meet club needs.

5. Respect & Sportsmanship

We ask that all families respect the player placement process and trust that our decisions are made with careful consideration and the goal of long-term player growth. Negative behaviour or public disputes regarding placement will not be tolerated.