FC Durham Academy OPDL Teams train and play in line with the guidelines of the Ontario Player Development League (OPDL).  The OPDL is the highest-level competition that is sanctioned by Ontario Soccer.

FC Durham Academy operates teams in both genders U13-U17 within the OPDL.

Starting at U15 our FC Durham Academy teams also begin their journey into our College Bound Program.

FC Durham opdl PROGRAM

It is our goal that once the players enter this stage, they are fully prepared to transition to our 11v11 soccer introduction at U13.

Technical development is always a priority while introducing tactical development based on the playing philosophy, training methodology and game model. FCD will operate with a complete 4-corner holistic approach which focuses on technical/tactical, physical, mental and social/emotional areas of player development. Our curriculum and focus can be found in the OPDL Overview and Curriculum. 

WHAT IS OPDL

The Ontario Player Development League (OPDL) is the highest level of competition in Ontario for players U13 and up. 

OPDL isn’t just a league. In fact, competition is a relatively small part of it. The league moves the focus from solely trying to win a trophy or avoid relegation, to developing players through a structured blend of high-performance training and age-appropriate play. In the OPDL, you’ll see mandatory heightened training with sport science and sport medicine components, complimenting regular weekly game play against other top players, from May to October.

The OPDL is not for everyone. As the Elite Pathway for players in Ontario, it requires a high level of commitment.

For Players:

• A full-time commitment to training and games.
• A commitment to excellence and growth

For Parents:

• Financial and time investment

WHY SHOULD MY CHILD PLAY OPDL?

Why should your child consider the OPDL rather than other alternative development programs in Ontario?

• Highest level and best competition league in Ontario for U13 and up
• A professional approach to soccer development based on specific standards
• Highly qualified coaches accountable to coaching development standards and regular assessments by the league
• Training based on a specific development curriculum set by the Canada Soccer and Ontario Soccer technical departments
• Medical and Fitness support staff
•  Indoor and outdoor turf facilities
• Player’s development is monitored and evaluated throughout the year, based on specific Provincial and National standards
• OPDL players are scouted regularly and provided with the opportunity to be selected for Provincial and National programs

Please email Tom Croft for any trial  inquiries 
toc15199@gmail.com

1.  Players must be registered to attend a trial.

2.  All players will be given a minimum of 3 trials before a final decision.

3.  There is no cost to attend FC Durham Trials. 

4.  "Under Age" and 'Over Aged" are permitted and FC Durham must obtain approval for the individual player from Ontario Soccer using a Player Movement Evaluation Process.  This final selection is at the discretion of FC Durham to ensure the player has the ability to blend in with the players at the intended age group, without undue risk of suffering injury.

5.  Player releases will be sent by email.

All existing OPDL players will need to complete the following form and submit it to: 

High-Performance Manager
Tom Croft
toc15199@gmail.com

Once reviewed, you will receive a signed copy and approval to attend.