EMSA North Adaptive Soccer
Inclusive Soccer Program

EMSA North is proud to offer an Adaptive Soccer Program – a welcoming, all-abilities program for children and youth ages 6 to 12!

This program is specially designed for players who are neurodiverse or have physical, cognitive, or developmental impairments. It offers a supportive space where participants can explore the game of soccer, build physical literacy, grow in confidence, form friendships, and have fun along the way.

With a focus on inclusion, the program is thoughtfully adapted to meet the needs of each participant, regardless of their ability, disability, or behavioral challenges.

Program Details (Winter 2026 Session)

  • Program Duration: 5 weeks
  • Session Length: 60 minutes per session
  • Dates: Saturdays
    • January 10, 2026
    • January 17, 2026
    • January 24, 2026
    • January 31, 2026
    • February 7, 2026
  • Time: 11:00am – 12:00pm
  • Location: Central Lions Recreation Centre (11113 113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta)
  • Cost:
    • $120 for returning players (an additional $10 fee applies if the player has outgrown their jersey)
    • $150 for new players (includes EMSA fees and a jersey)

Registration Steps

  1. Complete the online registration form (opens November 20) – https://go.teamsnap.com/forms/506603
  2. After payment is received, you will be sent an intake form along with additional program details.

Registration is considered complete once both the registration form and payment have been submitted. Participants will receive a TeamSnap invitation prior to the first session. TeamSnap will be used for communication throughout the program.

Please note: Space is limited. Once the maximum number of participants is reached, additional athletes may be placed on a waitlist pending availability.

Cancellation Policy

  • Refund requests must be received at least 5 days before the program start date.
  • Cancellations must be emailed to socceroffice@emsanorth.ca with the participant’s name.

Program Highlights

  • Fun & challenging sessions tailored to each participant’s abilities
  • Inclusive soccer training focused on:
    • Technical: Ball mastery, practice, group play
    • Psychological: Understanding, decision-making, confidence
    • Physical: Coordination, conditioning, motor skills
    • Social: Communication, teamwork, self-esteem

Who Can Join?

  • Players aged 6 to 12 years old
  • No previous soccer experience required
  • Players will be grouped by skill level, not by age

How Sessions Are Delivered

  • Open Games: Free play for comfort and confidence
  • Warm-Ups: Fun activities with and without the ball
  • Team Building/Ice Breakers: Social engagement before integration
  • Individual Skill Development: Small groups based on skill level
  • Cool-Down: Gradual wind-down after activities

Inclusive & Adaptive Approach

  • Space, Task, Equipment, and Participation modifications
  • Parallel games for different skill levels
  • Impairment-specific groups for safety or competition structure

Support & Safety

  • Sessions are delivered by experienced coaches & volunteers.
  • Maximum 15 participants per session
  • Parents/Guardians must be present during sessions
  • Parents/Guardians must provide all relevant information about their child’s medical conditions during registration

Important Notes

  • Waivers must be signed by guardians and participants for EMSA North.
  • Players need:
    • Indoor running shoes
    • Labelled water bottles