Coach Training & Certifications
Preparing to coach includes developing your knowledge, completing the appropriate training, and understanding your responsibilities to players.
Use the guide below to explore coaching education and supporting resources. The qualifications required for an assignment depend on the age group, competition, and whether you are a head coach or assistant coach. Confirm your requirements with North York Hearts before registering for courses.
Grassroots Coach Education
| Stage | Purpose | Coaching Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Active Start | Introduce movement and soccer through play. | Focus on enjoyable activities and positive first experiences. |
| FUNdamentals | Develop movement skills and basic soccer skills. | Encourage confidence, creativity, and participation. |
| Learn to Train | Build technical skills and understanding of the game. | Use purposeful activities and game situations to support learning. |
| Soccer for Life | Support continued participation and development. | Adapt coaching to players’ goals, experience, and level of play. |
Explore Grassroots Coach Education
Development and Competitive Coaching
Head coaches and assistant coaches may have different qualification requirements. Additional diplomas or licences can apply depending on the competition.
Before accepting an assignment, confirm:
- The coaching qualification required for the team.
- Any additional courses or evaluations.
- Screening and registration requirements.
- Completion deadlines and any renewal requirements.
View Ontario Soccer Coaching Courses
Supporting Training and Screening
The following topics may form part of your coaching preparation. This directory is a resource guide; the applicable requirements must be confirmed for your role.
| Training or Requirement | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Respect in Sport | Support respectful behaviour and positive participant experiences. |
| Make Ethical Decisions | Develop an approach to ethical decisions in coaching. |
| Making Head Way | Develop concussion awareness. |
| Emergency Action Plan | Prepare for an organized response to an emergency. |
| Understanding the Rule of Two | Understand appropriate supervision and coaching interactions. |
| Safe Sport | Recognize and address maltreatment in sport. |
| Laws of the Game | Strengthen understanding of soccer rules and their application. |
| First Aid | Develop practical emergency-response skills. |
| Accessibility Training | Support accessible and inclusive participant experiences. |
| Screening | Complete the checks and documentation applicable to the role. |
Training Resources
| Resource | Course Information |
|---|---|
| Grassroots Coach Education | Canada Soccer |
| Coaching Courses and Pathways | Ontario Soccer |
| Respect in Sport | Activity Leader Training |
| Make Ethical Decisions | Coaches Association of Ontario |
| Making Head Way | Coaching Association of Canada |
| Emergency Action Plan | Coaching Association of Canada |
| Understanding the Rule of Two | Coaching Association of Canada |
| Safe Sport Training | Coaching Association of Canada |
| Accessibility Training | AccessForward |
| First Aid Training | St. John Ambulance |
For screening instructions, contact North York Hearts before requesting or submitting documents.
Express Interest in Coaching
Interested in coaching or unsure where to begin? Email us with a brief introduction, your preferred coaching role, relevant experience or qualifications, and general availability.
Coming Soon
We’re planning a skills-based March Break soccer camp to help players build confidence, develop their technique, and enjoy the game through engaging activities and small-sided games.
Program details, including age groups, dates, location, and fees, will be shared once confirmed.
Interested in joining? Contact info@heartssoccer.com to express your interest and request updates.
Senior Men’s Competitive Soccer
Continue your competitive soccer journey with North York Hearts. Our senior men’s team competes in the Ontario Soccer League (OSL), with the outdoor team playing in the Men Provincial East division for the 2026 season.
This program is suited to experienced players looking for challenging senior competition, including players progressing from youth competitive soccer, returning university and college players, and established senior players seeking a competitive team environment.
Players interested in joining should contact the club to discuss their playing background, position, availability, and opportunities with the team.
Outdoor Season and Home Matches
Our outdoor senior team plays home and away fixtures against other clubs in the league.
Home venue: Esther Shiner Stadium, North York
Main home match night: Monday evenings, generally at 9:00 p.m.
Match days, kickoff times, and venues can vary throughout the season. Away games take place on different evenings and at opponents’ grounds. Please check the official league schedule for the latest fixture information.
Select North York Hearts – MPE if prompted.
Interested in Playing?
We welcome enquiries from players interested in senior competitive soccer. Contact us for information about:
- Player assessments and team opportunities.
- Eligibility, registration, and transfer requirements.
- Training schedules and attendance expectations.
- Player fees and uniform arrangements.
When contacting the club, please include your name, age, preferred position, previous playing experience, and a contact number. Team participation is subject to selection, roster availability, and applicable registration requirements.
Indoor Senior Team
North York Hearts also has an indoor senior team, providing another opportunity to stay involved in competitive soccer.
For information about the indoor team, playing opportunities, league, schedule, locations, and registration, please contact info@heartssoccer.com.
Program: U14+ Competitive Program
Age Groups: U14–U18; current team: Boys U14 A (2013)
Commitment: Three to four days per week
Program Schedule: Indoor season from mid-October to April; outdoor season generally from May to mid-September
Head Coach: Garfield Vernon
Coaching Qualifications: Coaches hold appropriate Canada Soccer and National Coaching Certification Program qualifications.
What Is the Competitive Program?
The North York Hearts Competitive Program helps committed players develop their technical ability, tactical understanding, fitness, confidence and teamwork in a structured, supportive environment.
Our current offering is the Boys U14 A IModel team for players born in 2013. The program combines purposeful training with competitive match experience, encouraging players to work hard, make decisions and grow together as a team.
Our approach reflects Ontario Soccer’s Soccer for Life development principles, supporting continued learning and meaningful competition. IModel provides a district and regional competitive pathway, with U14 teams playing the full 11v11 game.
U15–U18 teams are not currently established. Players in these age groups may express interest in future opportunities.
When Does the Program Run?
The indoor season runs from mid-October to April, followed by an outdoor season generally running from May to mid-September.
Players should expect a commitment of approximately three to four days per week, including training and games. Match frequency and schedules vary according to the season, league, facility availability and competition calendar.
Confirmed schedules, holiday breaks and team updates are shared through TeamSnap.
Where Are Training and Games Held?
Indoor practices take place at R.J. Lang Elementary and Middle School, Avondale Public School and The Hangar Sport and Events Centre at Downsview Park. Full addresses are listed in the Program Pricing section below.
Outdoor training takes place at fields used by North York Hearts. Games and competitions may be held at venues across Toronto, the GTA and surrounding regions.
Families receive confirmed session locations and scheduling information through TeamSnap.
Who Can Participate?
The current Boys U14 A team welcomes players born in 2013 who are prepared to commit to regular practices, games and team activities.
All interested players must attend an evaluation or tryout. Coaching staff consider each player’s ability, attitude, effort, commitment and suitability for the team environment.
Attending a tryout does not guarantee selection or a roster position.
Players interested in U15–U18 opportunities may submit an interest form. Submitting interest does not guarantee that a team will be formed.
How Do I Join?
Complete the interest registration form and provide your player’s birth year and contact information.
For the current U14 team, a North York Hearts coach or program representative will contact you with information about an upcoming tryout or evaluation.
U15–U18 submissions will be recorded as expressions of interest in future opportunities.
U14+ Competitive Team Tryouts
Players must register before attending a tryout. Submit your information using the appropriate button below.
U14+ Coaches
| Team | Birth Year | Head Coach |
|---|---|---|
| Boys U14 A — IModel | 2013 | Garfield Vernon |
Contact Us
General inquiries — email preferred
info@heartssoccer.com
Garfield Vernon
416-723-0053
Monday–Friday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
The North York Hearts Grassroots Program introduces players ages 7–8 to soccer in a positive, safe and welcoming environment. Through fun and engaging activities, participants build fundamental skills, movement, confidence and a love for the game. Our player-focused approach recognizes each child’s individual needs and supports their development at an appropriate pace.
Program Information
Two practices per week plus a weekend game.
Program Length
Indoor: September–April
Outdoor: May–September
Level of Coaching
FUNdamentals Children’s Licensed
Coaches certified by Canada Soccer and the National Coaching Certification Program
Coaching Staff
Head Coach: Garfield Vernon
Facilities
Indoor Season
RJ Lang Elementary & Middle School
227 Drewry Ave, Toronto, ON M2M 1E3
Outdoor Season
North York Civic Soccer
5720 Bathurst St,
Toronto, ON M2R 3W2
U9 – 2018 – U10 – 2017 Grassroots Development
North York Hearts Grassroots Development Program supports players ages 9–10 as they strengthen their soccer and movement skills in a safe, positive and enjoyable environment. At this stage, training emphasizes confidence and control with the ball. Players participate in age-appropriate activities and small-sided games that develop dribbling, running with the ball, receiving, turning, passing and decision-making.
This program is intended for players who are ready to commit to consistent training and game participation. Our coaches assess each player and place them in a suitable training group based on their current abilities and developmental needs. This approach creates a balanced environment where players are appropriately challenged, experience success and continue building their confidence and love for the game.
Program Information
Two practices per week plus a weekend game.
Program Length
Indoor: September–April
Outdoor: May–September
Level of Coaching
FUNdamentals Children’s Licensed
Coaches certified by Canada Soccer and the National Coaching Certification Program
Coaching Staff
Head Coach: Garfield Vernon
Facilities
Indoor Season
RJ Lang Elementary & Middle School
227 Drewry Ave, Toronto, ON M2M 1E3
Outdoor Season
North York Civic Soccer
5720 Bathurst St,
Toronto, ON M2R 3W2
U11 – 2016 – U13 – 2014 Grassroots Development
What Is the Rep Development Program?
North York Hearts Rep Development Program provides players ages 11–14 with opportunities to advance their soccer, movement and teamwork skills in a safe, welcoming and enjoyable environment. Coaches organize players into smaller training groups according to their abilities and developmental needs. This creates stronger player-coach relationships, increases time with the ball and ensures every participant receives an appropriate level of challenge. Activities and small-sided games encourage players to communicate, solve problems and work together to achieve shared goals.
This program is intended for players who are prepared to participate consistently in a structured schedule of training sessions and games. Coaches assess each participant and place them in a group suited to their current skill level and stage of development. These groupings help players build confidence, experience success and continue progressing in a positive yet challenging environment.
Program Information
Two practices per week plus a weekend game.
Program Length
Indoor: September–April
Outdoor: May–September
Level of Coaching
Learn to Train Licensed
Coaches certified by Canada Soccer and the National Coaching Certification Program
Coaching Staff
Head Coach
Bakhtiyor Khafizov — U11 Boys
Jayden Vernon — U12 Boys
Garfield Vernon — U13 Boys
Facilities
Indoor Season
RJ Lang Elementary & Middle School
227 Drewry Ave, Toronto, ON M2M 1E3
Avondale Public School
171 Avondale Ave, North York, ON M2N 2T5
Outdoor Season
North York Civic Soccer
5720 Bathurst St,
Toronto, ON M2R 3W2
Fall and Winter Recreational Soccer 2026–2027
Friday nights are for soccer, friends and fun!
Give your child a fun way to stay active through the fall and winter. North York Hearts’ co-ed indoor recreational program welcomes players in U9, U10, U11, U12 and U13, whether they’re trying soccer for the first time or already love to play.
With friendly coaches, enjoyable activities and exciting games, players can build confidence, develop soccer skills and make new friends. No experience needed just come ready to play!
A Program Built Around Play
Each session combines soccer training with games, giving children opportunities to learn, practice and enjoy playing together. Our focus is on having fun and helping every child feel welcome.
Sessions take place indoors in a school gymnasium with wood floors.
Fall & Winter Schedule
Ages: U9–U13
Program: Co-ed indoor recreational soccer
Day: Fridays
Location: Drewry School, 70 Drewry Avenue
Age Groups & Times
| Age Groups | Friday Session |
|---|---|
| U9/U10/U11 | 6:00–7:30 p.m. |
| U12/U13 | 7:30–9:00 p.m. |
Holiday Breaks
There are no sessions on the following Fridays:
- December 25, 2026, and January 1, 2027: Christmas/Winter Break
- March 19, 2027: March/Spring Break
- March 26, 2027: Good Friday
What to Wear
Come ready to play in a T-shirt, shorts, soccer socks, shin pads and indoor soccer shoes.
Player Development Pathway
Coaches monitor player progress throughout both sessions. Players demonstrating appropriate readiness, commitment and potential may be invited to try out for a future Competitive/Rep team.
Participation in the recreational program does not guarantee selection.
Before Registering
Please read Participation Agreement and How We Operate before completing registration.
Anti-Bullying Policy
North York Hearts is committed to a caring, friendly and safe environment for every participant. Bullying is not tolerated in any program.
The club reserves the right to remove a player whose behaviour is deemed inappropriate, without refund.
Ready to Join the Fun?
Make soccer part of your child’s Friday routine! Register through our online registration portal.
Register Now
Who it is for: Players ages 7–13, from newer players to competitive athletes; coaches challenge each player at the appropriate level.
What to expect: Licensed, experienced coaches; Coerver-style ball mastery; high-repetition training; 1v1 moves; dribbling, passing and finishing; small-sided games; daily challenges; a structured, positive and inclusive environment; camp T-shirt included.
Player outcomes: More confidence under pressure; stronger control, passing and finishing; better real-game decisions; improved discipline and focus.
2026 weeks: July 13–17; July 20–24; August 10–14; August 17–21.
Hours: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; drop-off from 8:30 a.m.; pickup by 4:30 p.m.
Fee: $325 per week; extended care $75 per week.
Location: North York Civic Soccer Fields, 5720 Bathurst St., North York, ON M2R 3W2.
What to bring: Nut-free lunch and snacks; one or two filled water bottles; soccer shoes, socks and shin guards; athletic shorts and training gear; hat, sunscreen, bug spray, raincoat and a change of clothes.
Weather: Camp runs rain or shine. Activities pause for thunder and lightning. Severe-weather shelter is available at Esther Shiner and tents provide shade.
Safe environment: Bullying or disruptive behaviour is not tolerated. The club may remove a participant whose behaviour is inappropriate, without refund.
2026 archive status: CLOSED — May 25 through Field Day on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
Program format: Two days each week for most divisions: one team training day and one House League game day. U3/4 meets once weekly.
2026 divisions and fee: U3/4 (2022–2023): $125; U5/6 (2020–2021): $250; U7 (2019): $250; U8 (2018): $250; U9/10 (2016–2017): $250.
2026 schedule: U3/4: Monday 7:00–8:00 p.m. • U5/6: games Monday, training Thursday, 7:00–8:00 p.m. • U7 and U8: games Tuesday, training Thursday, 7:00–8:15 p.m. • U9/10: games Thursday, training Tuesday, 7:00–8:15 p.m.
Location: North York Civic Soccer Fields / Esther Shiner Stadium, 5720 Bathurst St., North York.
Refund policy: Email info@heartssoccer.com. A $50 administration fee applies. For the 2026 season: full refund by May 1; 50% refund after May 1 and before May 15; no refund after May 15 except certifiable medical reasons reported within seven days. Fees are non-transferable.
Volunteer note: Parents interested in coaching should apply through registration or the Volunteer page. Adult volunteers require a police background check.
2027 holding message: 2027 Summer House League details are coming soon. Contact the club or join the update list for registration information.
Rep Development Program
Build skills. Grow confidence. Develop through soccer.
North York Hearts’ Rep Development Program supports players in U9–U13 who are ready for purposeful training and opportunities to develop their game.
Through qualified instruction, age-appropriate activities and small-sided games, players build their skills in an environment that values learning, effort and enjoyment.
About the Program
The program combines structured training with game experience to help players develop confidence, discipline, teamwork and life skills.
Coaches guide players through activities that strengthen their technique, encourage independent decisions and help them understand how to work together on the field.
What Players Develop
- Ball control and confidence in possession
- Passing, receiving, dribbling and finishing
- Decision-making and awareness of space
- Communication and teamwork
- Discipline, responsibility and a positive approach to learning
Who Can Join?
Entry is through player evaluation and identification—not open registration.
Players may be identified through free evaluations, technical-staff observation at House League games and other club identification activities.
Training and Games
Fall/Winter Practices
| Age Groups | Practice Days |
|---|---|
| U9 and U10 | Mondays and Thursdays |
| U11, U12 and U13 | Tuesdays and Thursdays |
League and Exhibition Games
Games take place on Saturdays or Sundays, excluding holiday weekends.
Teams participate in the York Region Indoor Soccer League, with games at various indoor turf fields across the GTA.
Training Locations
- Winter: School gymnasiums
- Spring, summer and fall: North York Civic Soccer Fields
A Pathway for Continued Development
Players may progress through the club’s development pathway as their skills and readiness grow:
Rep Development Program → Youth Reserve / advanced development → Competitive/Rep opportunities
Selection and participation do not guarantee a roster position at the next level.
Interested in Joining?
Contact North York Hearts to learn about free player evaluations and the next steps for your child.
Enquire About an Evaluation