Training Value
When you sign up for a club, it is important that you are given all the information that is being provided to your son or daughter. How many sessions will be offered, and who is running those sessions consistently? We pride ourselves on club staff and their loyalty and commitment to our program. Our Academy-led Munib Koric is the longest-serving TD at the same club, with over 20 years and counting. Our Development staff consists of alumni players who have over 15 plus years in the club as players and coaches, as well as staff with over 10 years in a coaching role. This is the DNA of our program and allows us to ensure consistency in every program we offer.
At the Villains, we focus on individual player development. Our recreational players want to learn more about the game and become more proficient at playing it. To this end, our recreational U7-U10 players receive technical training throughout the season in our skill centre program, with the option for U11-U17 to register for opt-in skills if they so wish. This training is conducted by our staff who have C Licenses and Youth and Children’s licenses. Most clubs in the city do not offer technical training to their recreational players consistently at any age, but we want to ensure their improvement through the season. These sessions focus on increasing the player’s ability and confidence on the ball so they feel comfortable when in possession.
Players who consider soccer their primary sport year-round can join our Competitive “Academy” program. Our Competitive Stream is an Academy-led, not coach-led, program designed to prioritize individual player development. The progress of all players is closely monitored by the Academy Director, who holds a UEFA Pro Certification—the highest coaching license available. This certification enables the running of national team programs anywhere in the world. We are very fortunate to have Munib, with his impressive credentials, contributing to our program. Due to his curriculum and meticulous attention to detail expected from all players and staff involved in training, we are widely recognized for producing the most technically proficient players in Calgary.
The number and length of sessions are based on the age of the players and the program plan we set out as part of our Yearly Training Program. In our programming, we continue The number and length of sessions depend on the players’ ages and the outline of our Yearly Training Program. Our programming continues to lead the way in offerings for all levels and ages by providing a fair and competitive fee for the value received. Munib has completed his UEFA Pro license and is the only Canadian coach to have completed his UEFA Pro apprenticeship with Real Madrid. Additionally, Munib is finished his UEFA Super Elite Youth license, which is a mandatory requirement for anyone in Europe aiming to be a Technical Director of a youth academy. Holding both of these licenses is a significant honor, and no other individual in this country will share these accomplishments as of 2024; Munib will be the sole individual in Alberta with the UEFA Super Elite license.
Many programs promote their Academy coach as the main attraction of the training, but often this individual leads very few of the sessions. Families pay for an academy program but receive far less qualified staff. Our Recreational staff are unmatched and offer a fun and engaging learning experience with National B, National Youth, and National Children’s licensed personnel. Regardless of the player’s level, age, or ability, we will design a proper plan for their individual development.