NEW GLASGOW
Pictou County FC recently completed its second full year of operations with a season-ending jamboree in New Glasgow.
The club, which is based out of A.G. Baillie Memorial School, immediately attracted young soccer players to its banner thanks to committed coaches, superior programming and a fun atmosphere. Pictou County FC capped off the 2019 summer season by holding a number of soccer matches, medal presentations for all participants, and a BBQ for parents and players alike.
Club president Korey Avery says the 2019 season was a watershed for Pictou County FC, growing their player base, adding new coaches and improving its programming.
“Our motto is ‘Seriously Fun Soccer’, and we work very hard to deliver a positive experience to all of our players, parents, and supporters,” said Avery.
“Our player numbers grew by approximately 25 per cent this season in a sport where overall player numbers are declining, which is an indication that we are running a solid program. Parents are investing their hard-earned dollars and entrusting us with their children, which is something that we take quite seriously.”
Avery went on to say that the club’s focus on individual skill development has yielded positive results.
“You have to make learning fun for the kids,” adds Avery, “and gain their buy-in in order to optimize their true potential.”
The club spent the summer focusing on core skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting and defending. Most players trained once per week and played a match on Saturday, an opportunity for them to show off their newly minted skills.
Pictou County FC, who recruited coaches from Brazil, England and Canada, trained their budding stars in a station format, and often used small sided games to teach their players how to play the beautiful game.
The young soccer club credits much of its success to its consistency.
“We have committed coaches and volunteers who show up every week. They are enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and care about the sport. Nothing ruins a program faster than coaches who don’t show up, are unprepared when they do come, or only coach their own kids leaving others feeling left out,” according to the club president. Pictou County FC not only lists senior instructors among its coaching ranks, but also has a youth coaching mentorship program.
Avery says the club is poised to grow rapidly over the coming years.
“Our first season was all about proof of concept, and this season was about cementing our program and strengthening our connection with the community. We feel that we are now ready to branch out, expand our base, and add some exciting new options for our members.”
Pictou County FC is currently developing a winter program for kids that will focus on game play as opposed to training all winter. The club aims to provide an off-season program that allows kids to have fun, meet new friends, and maintain their skill level with minimal commitment from parents.
