Junior Development in Abbotsford, BC
Is This the Right Program?
The Junior Development program bridges the gap between our introductory Learn to Play sessions and the structured U10 age-group competition. It is designed for players aged 7 to 9 who have either completed Learn to Play or who already have some familiarity with a stick and ball. At this stage, children are ready to move beyond the basics and begin building the fundamental movement patterns that will serve them throughout their field hockey journey. This program puts a strong emphasis on individual skill development -- dribbling, receiving, and short passing -- while introducing children to the concept of small-sided games. Our coaches use the FUNdamentals training methodology, which is recognized by Hockey Canada as the gold standard for athletic development at this age group. Players will learn how to read the game at a simple level: where to position themselves, when to press the ball, and how to support a teammate. We accept players from across the Abbotsford area, including families from Mission, Langley, and Chilliwack. The program is co-ed and welcomes children of varying athletic backgrounds. By the end of the season, every player will have a clear pathway into the U10 competitive team with demonstrated skills and growing confidence on the turf.
Program Highlights
- Age group: Ages 7-9
- Skill level: Beginner to Developing
- Season: Fall & Spring (Sept-Nov, Feb-April)
- Wednesday & Saturday
- Wednesday 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM | Saturday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
- Exhibition Park Turf, Abbotsford
What Players Will Learn
- Dribbling with control -- Indian dribble and push-dribble techniques
- Receiving stationary and moving passes on forehand and backhand
- Short push pass with accuracy over 5-10 metres
- Basic defensive positioning and stick-block tackle
- Reading small-sided game situations (2v1, 3v2)
- Field awareness and calling for the ball
- Good sporting behaviour and respect for opponents
When & Where We Play
- Season
- Fall & Spring (Sept-Nov, Feb-April)
- Days
- Wednesday & Saturday
- Time
- Wednesday 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM | Saturday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
- Location
- Exhibition Park Turf, Abbotsford
- Note
- Spring season includes 3-4 friendly matches against clubs in the Fraser Valley.
Why Train With AFHC
Skill Progression
Structured monthly benchmarks ensure every player advances and knows exactly what they are working toward.
Friendly Competitions
Spring season includes friendly matches so players experience game situations in a low-pressure setting.
Love the Game
We balance structured practice with plenty of free-play time so children develop an intrinsic love for field hockey.
How to Register
Getting started with AFHC is simple. Follow these steps and your child will be on the turf in no time.
- 1
Register Online
Fill out the registration form, select Junior Development, and complete payment.
- 2
Attend the Welcome Session
The first session is an informal skills assessment so coaches can group players appropriately.
- 3
Train & Develop
Attend both weekly sessions for maximum development. Parents receive monthly progress updates.
- 4
Advance to U10
Players who complete the program are invited to U10 try-outs at the start of the following season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Programs
Ready to Play?
Join Abbotsford Field Hockey Club Today
Registration is open for all programs. Spots are limited — secure your child's place before the season starts.
