How does Divisional Soccer work?

In the 2008/2009 season, boys born in 1996 will fall into the U13 age group (first Divisional year*).  The following chart will help you to determine what age group your son will be playing in the current year:

Do graduating Super 8’s play on the same team when they move to Divisional?

Not necessarily. Because the teams move to 11-a-side in U13*, it is necessary to blend some teams in order to have adequate numbers of players. Divisional teams U13 and up are ranked according to skill. The top teams play in the Gold division, followed by Silver and Bronze (or House) teams. The teams are ranked to ensure, as much as possible, that the games are competitive.  Generally, there is only one Gold team ("Falcons") and one Silver team ("Hawks") in each age group. 

Where do Divisional teams play?

Most Divisional teams play in the 4 District League comprised of member clubs from the North Shore, Vancouver, Richmond and Burnaby districts. If there are insufficient teams in a particular age group, it may be necessary to play an Eight or Nine District interlock.  If this situation arises, you will be contacted.

Can my Divisional Team win anything?

Absolutely!  From U13 onward, if a team wins its league, every player receives a trophy. All cup play is organized by draws of a single play - knock-out style. The three levels of cup play are: Pioneer Cup (Gold), Commonwealth Cup (Silver) and Burrard Cup (Bronze). There are also Provincial "A" and "B" Cup competitions with teams entered from all over British Columbia. On the North Shore, divisional teams participate in Silver Cup and Community Cup.

Do the Rules of the Game Change in Divisional?

Yes! Unlike Mini Soccer, where the rules are adapted to suit the young age and corresponding stage of development of the players, all Divisional games U13 and up are played under international (FIFA) soccer laws.

This means 11-a-side, turf or full size grass fields (weather permitting), yellow and red cards, etc. For those new to soccer, red and yellow cards are disciplinary cards carried by the referee and signify the severity of fouls committed by the players. Yellow cards are cautionary and red cards result in the ejection of the player. The coach and player receiving a red card are required to appear at a disciplinary hearing. 

Does Registration Change for Divisional Soccer?

Yes! All players are registered with Lynn Valley Soccer Association (for more information &/or to register, click here); however, in Divisional, each player signs a registration form that registers him with the British Columbia Soccer Association. In BCSA, all U13-U18 players require photo ID for all games played.