Grassroots change for 2026 (U8, U9, U10)
Whyte Ridge Community Centre Soccer will be updating how U8, U9, and U10 soccer is delivered as part of the new Grassroots Soccer model beginning in 2026. The goal is simple: to create a fun, organized, and development-focused soccer experience for young players while also supporting our volunteer coaches.
These changes will affect all clubs and community centres that participate in the Winnipeg Youth Soccer Association (WYSA).
For the 2026 season, these Grassroots changes will apply only to the U9 and U10 age groups.
What is changing?
The Grassroots model also introduces a few gameplay adjustments to make games easier for young players to learn and enjoy. At Whyte Ridge, this means your child’s soccer experience will place more emphasis on:
- more touches on the ball
- equal playing opportunities
- players experiencing different positions and roles
- confidence building
- fun, movement, and teamwork
Gameplay Changes for U9–U10
Key changes to gameplay at this age groups will be:
- All restarts are passing restarts – the ball is put back into play with a pass rather than a long kick.
- Kick-ins instead of throw-ins – when the ball goes out of bounds, play restarts with a kick from the sideline.
- Retreat line on goal kicks – the opposing team must move back to allow the team restarting play to pass the ball out from the back.
- No Referees – Coaches and Activity leaders will manage the game play.
- No penalties or cards – the focus is on teaching and guiding players rather than enforcing discipline.
WYSA has already introduced several changes to reduce early competitive pressure. Game scores, standings, and rankings are no longer tracked at these ages. The focus is on helping players learn the fundamentals first, with a gradual progression toward game play and competition as they get older.
For some families this may feel different from the previous model, but the goal is to keep kids engaged, developing skills, and enjoying the game each week.
Will there still be teams?
YES! While the broader Grassroots model allows for more flexible player groupings, Whyte Ridge will continue forming groups and teams because of our community-based structure has smaller registration amounts. We will continue organizing smaller teams and groups similar to previous seasons, while still emphasizing:
- player growth
- effort and participation
- development of both players and coaches
We know families value the sense of belonging and community that teams create, and we want to maintain that experience.
What is Whyte Ridge’s approach?
Whyte Ridge Soccer is committed to providing a positive, inclusive, and player-focused environment for both players, Coaches and Parents.
Our goal is to help children:
- enjoy the game
- build confidence
- develop the right skills at the right stage
- grow a lifelong love of soccer
What does a training session look like?
A typical session will be structured, active, and fun. WRCC is developing a consistent training plan for all Grassroots teams.
Sessions will generally include:
- a weekly skill focus and drill to build core soccer fundamentals
- activities designed to keep players moving, engaged, and learning
- mini-games or a short scrimmage at the end of the session (depending on attendance and field availability)
The focus will always be on learning, confidence, and encouragement — not results. Parent Coaches will help manage players and support skill stations during training.
WRCC is also working to introduce Soccer Activity Leaders who can help guide drills and support coaches.
(This role is still being developed and may not be available at every session.)
Our Commitment
This new Grassroots model represents a shift from how soccer has traditionally been delivered. Since this is new territory, Whyte Ridge Soccer is working through how this model fits within a volunteer-run program like ours — and how we make sure soccer stays accessible, fun, and something families actually want to sign up for. This is a big shift from how things have been done, so there may be a few bumps along the way, but we’re committed to working through it in a way that makes sense for our community.
WYSA Grassroots Programming – https://www.winnipegyouthsoccer.com/content/grassroots-programming
If you have any questions, please contact soccer@whyteridge.ca.