This past weekend, FTF proudly hosted our first Euro ID Clinic in Ottawa, Ontario. Tailored for male players aged U10-U17, with female players welcome, this inaugural event in Canada’s capital city coincided with the Canada Day Long Weekend, adding a festive backdrop to a weekend of intense training and invaluable exposure.
Seven esteemed European Academy coaches joined us, hailing from Germany, France, Belgium, Italy, Portugal, and the Netherlands. We chose these countries for their favourable visa conditions, simplifying the pathway for young Canadians to transition into European leagues. The coaches in attendance included Claudio Ranzani from Pescara, Cederique Tulleners from the Lithuania FF, Michel Courel from Le Havre, Joschua Kuhnreich from SV Holstein, Fethi Ozerdogan from FC Twente and Heracles, Luis Vasco from CF Os Belenenses, and Benjamin Bureau from Estac Troyes.
Each day was meticulously structured, offering a 2-hour session per age group, culminating in a Performance Day featuring game-play evaluations. The sessions were held at Immaculata High School, with age-specific training times ensuring focused and age-appropriate coaching. Participants received an ID Clinic Shirt, water bottle, and a professional headshot as they walked in for the event.
Our clinic’s format, designed to maximize learning and exposure, saw each session led by a different coach. This approach allowed players to absorb diverse European soccer methodologies, broadening their tactical and technical understanding. The presence of a dedicated goalkeeper coach, Michael Courel from Le Havre, ensured specialized training for goalkeepers as well.
Performance evaluations were a cornerstone of the clinic, with the standout players being offered trial opportunities at prestigious European academies. The chance to secure trials abroad represents a significant step toward realizing professional soccer dreams for many attendees. Videographers and photographers documented the event, capturing the intensity and excitement and providing participants with lasting memories of their experience.
The coaches were particularly impressed with the skill level and dedication of our young Canadian players, noting that the talent on display rivalled that of their counterparts in Europe. This acknowledgment speaks volumes about the potential of Canadian soccer and underscores the importance of providing international exposure and high-quality training opportunities to our athletes. The successful completion of this event sets a promising precedent for future clinics, fostering international soccer connections and opening doors to European opportunities for aspiring Canadian players.
