Estevan Minor Soccer spent the weekend focused on development, hosting a series of coaching clinics aimed at preparing volunteers for the upcoming outdoor season.
According to Jason Bresciani, president of Estevan Minor Soccer, the sessions gave both new and returning coaches practical tools to help players learn while keeping the emphasis on fun. “It actually went pretty good,” Bresciani said. “In two of the three sessions we had around 10 coaches out, and they learned a lot of different mini‑games that help kids learn while they’re enjoying being out there.”
Building Confidence From the Ground Up
The weekend began with the Active Start module on Saturday morning, focusing on the youngest age groups, including under‑3 and under‑5 players.
This session covered basic fundamentals such as coach positioning, drill setup, and creating a welcoming environment for new coaches taking their first steps behind the whistle. “It’s about setting coaches up for success and making them comfortable out there,” Bresciani explained.
Advancing Skills While Keeping Soccer Fun
Later Saturday, coaches moved into more advanced material with the Learn to Train and Soccer for Life modules, aimed at players ranging from roughly under‑11 up to under‑17.
The sessions introduced more technical drills while still emphasizing creativity and enjoyment. Coaches practised outlining drills, explaining objectives, and demonstrating techniques in ways players can easily understand. “The focus is still having fun,” Bresciani said. “But it’s a bit more technical and structured.”
Fundamentals Bridge the Gap
Sunday morning wrapped up with the Fundamentals session, targeting players in the under‑7 and under‑9 age groups.
This module sits between introductory and advanced soccer, reinforcing basic skills such as ball control, movement, and decision‑making through small‑sided, game‑based drills. “It’s more teaching the basics of the game in fun little drills,” Bresciani said, “and helping coaches understand why we set drills up the way we do.”
While one session had lighter attendance, Bresciani said players stepped in to help demonstrate drills, keeping energy levels high throughout the weekend.
Learning Never Stops for Coaches
Bresciani noted that coaching clinics like these are valuable regardless of experience level. “I’ve been coaching for a very long time, and I’m still learning,” he said. “I’m always taking courses and trying to get better and stronger.”
He added that increased participation in coaching education ultimately benefits local athletes and the overall experience on the field.
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Season Ready to Launch
With clinics complete, attention now shifts to the start of the outdoor season.
Estevan Minor Soccer’s house league is set to kick off Monday, May 4, starting with under‑3, under‑5, and under‑11 divisions. The following night will feature under‑7, under‑9, under‑13, under‑15, and under‑17 teams. “The park will be buzzing next week,” Bresciani said.
Competitive play is also expected to begin later in May as schedules continue to be finalized.
