Prospects Program (2006 - 2008 Born)

Primary Focus: In this stage we train players to compete at the highest standards possible and skill acquisition is still a big factor as we hone in on dribbling, passing, receiving, and striking, all within the context and complexity of game based environments. We continue to demand a standard of training ethic and discipline at each session.

The ASTRA Prospects program is aligned with Canada Soccer’s Long Term PlayerDevelopment (LTPD), a model of athlete development that places the needs of the player at the forefront of everything we do. This fourth stage, “Training to Train”, is the optimal window of trainability for stamina begins with the onset of Peak Height Velocity (PHV), more commonly known as the adolescent growth spurt. The demands of skill training as well as training loads should increase, thus provoking improvement in mental toughness, concentration and diligence.

This stream is for the player who has the potential, motivation, and aspirations to play at the highest levels of the game in Saskatchewan, Canada, or potentially overseas. The High Performance Travel Team (HPTT) is the first step in the Performance Pathway. The HPTT requires players ensure soccer is their main focus where they will train 3-4 times per week and play once per week.

Sport Science: Strength & Conditioning, Neuro Soccer, Nutritional Support and Video Analysis classroom sessions. Strength and conditioning sessions are scheduled once per week and are incorporated into the on-field sessions. The majority of these sessions incorporate the use of a ball and realistic movements that would be found in a competitive match environment. Weight training sessions are scheduled once per week for the Prospects groups. In addition to these group sessions, individual plans are designed by our Sport Science Director for all Prospect players.

Competition Philosophy: Players who show a particular preference for a specific position are now playing in that position more regularly and might not be playing many minutes in other positions unless they express interest. By this stage, players who have trained at ASTRA for a number of years now possess a high degree of confidence and composure on the ball in 1v1 attacking and evasive skill situation. For that reason, the focus now shifts to the team, and using the ball to manipulate defenders and defensive structures. Patience, awareness, and game IQ are the priorities in this stage. Defensive principles of play involving groups and units of players are being taught and continuously reinforced to ensure players adopt the correct soccer vocabulary.