Tier 1 Program (U14 to U18)

Tier 1 is the most competitive and committed level of soccer in Nova Scotia for age groups U14 to U18. Teams at this level play in the Nova Scotia Soccer League (NSSL) and will travel throughout the province during the summer. The NSSL is responsible for the scheduling and possible rescheduling of all Tier 1 games. Tier 1 games are played largely on the weekends but also on weekdays. Teams will play approximately one game per week and there will be two scheduled practices per week. Dependent upon coach’s requirements, there could be more than two practices per week. Teams will also participate in one to two tournaments (perhaps out of province) during the summer season. Tournament fees, travel and accommodation are the responsibility of the players and their families and are not included in the registration fee. Players at this level are expected to be highly committed to soccer and their attendance at games and practices is mandatory. The aim of the Tier 1 teams is to win the Provincial title (held in August) and to compete at the National Club Championships held each year in October. The championships are held at a different Canadian venue for each age group. Tier 1 requires time and financial committement from both the players and parents to achieve the team goal. The coach, on the basis of attitude, commitment and ability on a game by-game basis, will determine appropriate playing time for each player. Playing time is at the discretion of the coach. Final team selection can be made up to the Soccer Nova Scotia (SNS) registration date of June 15th. Practices begin in early April and run through to August. Games begin in early May and run through August. All games (except Highland and Valley games) will be played on artificial turf and will be played in all weather.

Tier 2 Program (U12 to U18)

The Tier 2 program at HDSC operates up to three levels of play – Tier 2A, developmental competitive and Tier 2B and Tier 2C, recreational. Each requires distinct levels of commitment from the players and families involved. At the recreational level (Tier 2B and Tier 2C), fun is very much emphasized with equity in playing time for the participants. The developmental competitive level (Tier 2A) requires a higher level of commitment with regular attendance at practice and games – that is not to say these players don’t have fun, as this is also a requirement. However, when considering which level you would like to participate in, remember the A level has much higher expectations.

Tier 2A (U14 to U18)

Tier 2A is a very competitive level of soccer for age groups from U12 to U18. Tier 2A is the highest level of play at the U12 level. Teams play in the Capital Inter District Soccer League (CISL – www.cislns.ca) with approximately two games per week, beginning usually in early June and running through mid to late August. League games are usually scheduled on weekdays with the exception of rain out games, which are held on Saturday and Sundays as outlined and scheduled by the CISL. Games are held in all the local districts – Halifax, Dartmouth, East Hants, Sackville, etc. There will also be 1-2 practices per week beginning in April. Playing time will be more equal than the Tier 1 level, however the coach may limit playing times as he/she sees fit, on a need to win basis (i.e. playdowns, provincials). The goal is to advance to the Provincial play downs and be successful at the Provincial Championships. The play downs for the Tier 2 division are normally held the second week of August. Attendance at games and practices is required. Time and commitment are not as high as Tier 1, however can still be substantial. HDSC Technical Staff will run sessions throughout the season to ensure all players have access to improving their skills and tactical play. Final team selection can be made up to the Soccer Nova Scotia (SNS) deadline of June 15th. Teams will also participate in one to two tournaments, as decided by the coach and the team, during the summer season. Tournament costs are not included in the registration fee. Tournaments fees, travel and accommodation are the responsibility of the players and their families.

Tier 2B / Tier 2C (U12 to U18)

Tier 2B and Tier 2C are the recreational side of our soccer program for age groups U12 to U18. Teams at these levels play in the Capital Inter District Soccer League (CISL - www.cislns.ca) with approximately two games per week, beginning in early June and running through mid to late August. League games are usually scheduled on weekdays with the exception of rain out games, which are held on Saturday and Sundays as outlined and scheduled by the CISL. Games are held in all the local districts – Halifax, Dartmouth, East Hants, Sackville, etc. HDSC philosophy for coaches at this level is to provide equal playing time for all players. There will also be 1 scheduled practice per week, beginning as early as mid April and running through to August. These teams will participate in tournaments at the discretion of the families and coaches. Tournaments fees, travel and accommodation are the responsibility of the players and their families. HDSC Technical Staff will deliver sessions during the summer to ensure all players have access to improving their skills and tactical play. These sessions will be advertised in advance.

If you require further information on the HDSC U12 Program, please contact us at 902-455-0078 or email us at dunbrack.sc@ns.sympatico.ca.