AFHC
Young players practising dribbling drills on a synthetic turf field
Ages 7-9 | Building Core Skills

Junior Development in Abbotsford, BC

Ages 7-9Beginner to Developing
Who It's For

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's Included

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
Schedule

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 Choose Us

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.

Registration

How to Register

Getting started with AFHC is simple. Follow these steps and your child will be on the turf in no time.

  1. 1

    Register Online

    Fill out the registration form, select Junior Development, and complete payment.

  2. 2

    Attend the Welcome Session

    The first session is an informal skills assessment so coaches can group players appropriately.

  3. 3

    Train & Develop

    Attend both weekly sessions for maximum development. Parents receive monthly progress updates.

  4. 4

    Advance to U10

    Players who complete the program are invited to U10 try-outs at the start of the following season.

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Call Us — (604) 555-0147