(January 9, 2018) On January 6-7th, coaches, players, and parents joined Alberta Soccer at its annual Grassroots Symposiums in Edmonton and Calgary. The symposiums, which were geared toward those involved with U8 and U10 teams, focused on physical literacy and the importance it plays in the performance of young players.

Together with Active for Life, Alberta Soccer’s Grassroots team welcomed parents and administrators to observe and participate in the coaching sessions and activities – encouraging questions about physical literacy and how to raise & coach physically literate children.

“We were excited to introduce the value of physical literacy to coaches and parents at the symposium this weekend,” said John Clubb, Manager of Grassroots Development, Alberta Soccer. “A challenge we commonly face today is keeping our children active. As parents and coaches, we can support this process by creating an inclusive and fun environment – one where kids can achieve success and be with friends.”

By the end of each session, the parents had joined in on the fun and development – even attempting somersaults with their kids!

“Parents can at times be excluded from their children’s activities, and this is a mistake. We are seeking to embrace parents’ desire to participate in their child’s sport by getting them playing and being active as well,” said Clubb.

Lynn Jobe of Active for Life said, “Physical literacy is a gift we can give our children. That’s why Active for Life was thrilled to be involved in the Symposium and we’re looking forward to doing more with Alberta Soccer in the future.” Parents looking for more information about Physical Literacy as well as ideas to help their young soccer players experience success, both on and off the field, will want to visit Activeforlife.com.

To discover opportunities for John Clubb and the Grassroots Team to visit your community, submit a community outreach form online

Follow along with the conversation with @AlbertaSoccer and #ThisIsGrassroots