A good summer camp can do more for a young player than a whole month of regular training: five days in a row of touches, games and new friends. Here's how Kanata and Stittsville families can pick the right one.
Half day or full day?
For players under eight, half-day camps (around three hours) usually work best. Older players can handle full days, as long as the schedule mixes intense technical work with games, rest and shade.
Check the coach-to-player ratio
Ask how many players each coach looks after. Smaller groups mean more feedback and more touches. Ask who leads the camp and whether coaches are background-checked.
Ask about heat and weather
Ottawa summers can be hot and humid. A well-run camp has water breaks built in, shaded rest, a plan for heat warnings and a rain plan. Ask before you book.
What a good camp day looks like
- A warm-up with the ball, not laps
- One clear technical theme each day
- Plenty of small-sided games
- A tournament or challenge to finish the week
- Coaches who learn every child's name
What to pack
Cleats, shin guards, a large water bottle, a packed lunch for full days, sunscreen, a hat and a spare shirt. Label everything.
Camps near Kanata and Stittsville
Our camps and clinics run at Kittiwake Park in Stittsville, 10–15 minutes from most of Kanata. They include summer camps, holiday skills clinics, goalkeeper clinics and speed clinics, open to members and non-members.
