Philosophy
The vision of Vancouver Athletic FC is to create a supportive environment to learn and play soccer while promoting the values of fair play and skill development.
The club’s approach emphasizes development of individual and team skills, a dedication to practice and self-improvement, commitment to team and club; and the values of sportsmanship, fair play, inclusiveness, diversity and respect.
Ultimately, VAFC seeks to promote a lifelong involvement in soccer based on the notion that playing the game is fun.
VAFC endorses and follows the BC Soccer Association long term player development model, which is a player-centered approach that provides guidelines for correct training, competition and recovery based on scientific principles of human development and athlete training, combined with the knowledge of expert coaches. “Player-centered” means VAFC respects the developmental needs of players first and foremost. VAFC ensures that young players have fun while they learn so they want to continue playing. It also means VAFC provides challenging opportunities for special talents so they can develop their abilities and pursue excellence.
VAFC is home to more than 2,500 players ranging in ages from 5 to 18. We have a deep presence in central and east Vancouver, with house league chapters based at Douglas Park, Clinton Park, John Hendry Park (Trout Lake), and Garden Park. The neighbourhood basis for our house league chapters allows for practices and games for younger players close to home.
The club offers teams for boys and girls, regardless of skill level, at the house league level for ages 4 through 9; at the 8-aside level for ages 10 and 11; and the divisional level for ages 12-18.
Divisional teams participate in Division 1, 2, and 3 levels in the BC Coastal Soccer League (BCCSL) and 8-a-side teams in the Vancouver Youth Soccer Association (VYSA) League.
VAFC has formed an alliance with TSS FC to allow advanced training opportinies for our top teams and players. Starting in 2021 VAFC’s top U11 and U12 teams will train with TSS FC as part of the VAFC Rovers Program. Successful graduates from this program then move onto the TSS FC BCSPL program at U13. TSS FC will also run the, soon to be launched, Canada Soccer Skills Centre at VAFC. Some VAFC Division 1 teams will also get coaching assistance from TSS instructors.
VAFC combines and carries on the soccer traditions of its three founding clubs: Grandview Legion Football Club, Douglas Park Soccer Club and Vancouver Girls Soccer Club.
