Season-Long Assessment

At Calgary Blizzard SC, our goal is simple: place every player in the environment where they can grow, feel confident, and enjoy the game.

To align with Canada Soccer’s National Youth Club Licensing standards, we use an ongoing assessment model rather than traditional one-day evaluations. We believe a season-long process provides a more accurate, fair, and development-focused approach to team placement.

How Our Assessment Model Works

Team placement is based on consistent observation over time – not a single session.

Our assessment period begins at registration intake (September/October) and continues through February/March, depending on the age group. During this time, players are evaluated in:

• Training sessions

• Technical programming

• League games

• Team environments

This allows our technical staff to see players in real game situations, reducing pressure and giving each athlete the opportunity to showcase their abilities naturally.

Returning Players

For players continuing with Blizzard, our technical team reviews:

• Individual Player Competency (IPC) reports

• Head coach feedback

• Ongoing staff evaluations

Roster decisions are made collaboratively to ensure each player is placed in a developmentally appropriate environment.

New-to-Club Players

For players new to Blizzard, our staff assess during the first two weeks of the outdoor season through:

• On-field training sessions

• CMSA league games

This approach allows players to demonstrate their strengths in real soccer settings, rather than in a one-day tryout format. Where necessary, roster adjustments may be made to ensure the best developmental fit.

Key Dates (2026)

• Placement Sessions: March 16–20 at the Shouldice Dome

• Placement Notifications: Sent by email no later than April 8

Team Placement

Once assessments are complete:

• Families will receive an email outlining team placement, coach, and tier (if applicable).

• Player development and evaluation continues throughout the season.

• If our technical staff believe a player would benefit from a different environment, adjustments may be made in the best interest of development.

We are committed to maintaining fairness, transparency, and integrity in every placement decision. CBSA also reserves the right to combine age groups when appropriate.

Appeals Process

Should you feel your child’s placement warrants review, we offer a formal appeal process. To initiate an appeal:

1. Complete the Player Placement Appeal Form

2. Submit the $100 appeal fee via e-transfer to info@calgaryblizzard.com (include “Appeal Payment” in the notes)

Appeals are reviewed by the technical committee. A written response will be provided within 10 business days.

If an appeal is granted, the fee will be refunded.

To ensure consistency and fairness, appeals are handled in writing and not discussed by phone or in person.

More information on the appeals process can be found in the Appeal Form and/or in our Placement Appeal Policy.