ONTARIO PLAYER DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE (OPDL)

The Ontario Player Development League (OPDL) is one of the province’s first standards-based, youth high-performance league that combines top level competition with strict high-performance training standards. This innovative and exciting youth high-performance program is an important component of the overall movement to adopt the core principles of Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) across soccer at large in Ontario and Canada. OPDL encompasses the U13 to U17 age categories, for both males and females.

OPDL represents young players’ early graduation to a genuine, high-performance training environment, targeting the top athletes in the province from age groups U13 to U17, constituting the highest level of competitive youth soccer in Ontario. OPDL operates more as a high-performance training program than merely a league. The program’s key objective is to foster the growth of players across the four key corners of player development.

Hamilton United TFC are excited to be the only soccer club within the Hamilton District that can offer the OPDL pathway to our players.

THE PROGRAM EMPHASIZES THE FOUR CORNER LTPD MODEL, CONSISTING OF:

TECHNICAL DEVELOPMENT
Emphasizing a focus on improving individual skills such as ball control, passing, dribbling, shooting, and defending. Tactical understanding is another crucial aspect addressed in the program. Players are exposed to various game situations and strategies to enhance their decision-making abilities and overall game intelligence.

PSYCHOLOGICAL
Creating engaging learning environments is crucial for developing future players. Coaches will adapt their coaching styles to meet individual needs and recognize diverse learning approaches. This will be implemented by using varied communication methods like visuals, auditory discussions, and physical demonstrations.

PHYSICAL CONDITIONING
Physical conditioning and athleticism receive significant attention as well. The program includes age-appropriate fitness training to enhance players’ speed, agility, strength, and endurance.

SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL
Soccer offers children valuable life skills like cooperation, teamwork, communication, and friendship. To nurture social development, coaches should create a positive, welcoming environment and provide encouragement for learning.

OPDL players are expected to participate in multiple training sessions per week, which provides them with ample opportunities to practice and refine their skills. Competitive matches play a vital role for all OPDL teams.

The coaching standards in the OPDL program are of utmost importance. All coaches are certified and possess the necessary qualifications and experience to guide players effectively.

OPDL Trials and Phases

OPDL Licence Holders are required to host, conduct and advertise trials & sessions following the OPDL Rules:

• Phase I – Players outside the Talented Player Pathway only
• Objective: Identify players outside OPDL environments
• Activity: Open Trials and Invitation Only Trials
• Period: September 2nd to October 20th, 2025
• To register for Phase 1 trials please click here.

Please contact Joey Lombardi, Head of Soccer Development at jlombardi@mhysc.org once you have registered to receive specific trial dates.

Tryout Dates

Please check back if your child’s tryout date has not been added yet or contact Joey Lombardi at jlombardi@mhysc.org if you have any questions.

Boys Born in 2013

Girls Born in 2013

Register for Tryouts on PowerUp

2025-2026 OPDL Team Programs Trial Schedule

Boys

Girls