Playing Soccer in Vancouver
- Vancouver is home to top tier academies where young players can enter elite, competitive streams.
- Youth programs and summer camps offer numerous opportunities for players to develop a love for the game.
- Adults that want to stay active can find social-centered and competitive leagues that match their skill level and goals.
- If you are looking for a soccer field for fun and practice, check out local playing pitches in your neighborhood.
Vancouver is one of the best in Canada to play soccer with it's year-round temperate weather and exciting Major League Soccer team. Players of all ages and abilities can find their place in the city's soccer scene.
From inclusive, grassroots youth academies to boisterous adult leagues, Vancouver's love of the sport is reflected in its high-quality coaching and well-maintained indoor and outdoor fields. Whether you're a beginner getting into the game, a parent scouting summer camps or after-school programs for their energetic child, or an adult looking for competitive or social play, Vancouver delivers.
This article explores the numerous opportunities available for soccer players - from development academies and recreational setups to community pitches - so you can discover the perfect way to lace up your cleats and put on your jersey to play the beautiful game in Canada's iconic West Coast city.
Learning soccer in Canada is popular among youth, with thousands enrolling in grassroots programs each year.
Top Soccer Schools in the Vancouver Area
Soccer schools or academies offer specialized training to talented young players that want to develop their skills, overall performance, and understanding of the game through structured coaching and competition. They typically serve children, youth, and sometimes young adults. Programs may include beginner level to elite, professional-level development.
Let's take a closer look at some of the top soccer schools in the Vancouver area.
| Academy | Ages | Programs | Highlights |
| Vancouver Whitecaps FC Academy | U13–U19 (MLS Next); Girls Elite Academy | Full-time professional pathway; BMO Academy Centres; camps | Pro club affiliation, extensive development system, national team call-ups |
| Barça Academy Vancouver | U6–U18 | Summer camps & year-round academy sessions under Barça methodology | Official FC Barcelona coaching, chance to train in Barcelona, possession‑based focus |
| Paris Saint‑Germain Academy Vancouver | U5–U15 | Competitive training, junior academy, travel teams, seasonal camps | PSG-certified UEFA coaches, technical & tactical development, global brand |
| VanCity Pro Football Academy | U8–U18 | High-performance training with Villarreal CF affiliation | Spanish-style philosophy (Cruyff/Wenger/Guardiola); community values and personal growth |
Year-round indoor and outdoor facilities make learning soccer in Toronto accessible in every season.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC Academy ⚽
3713 Kensington Ave, Burnaby, BC
As the official youth development program of Vancouver's MLS team, this academy offers a clear pathway from grassroots to pro. Targeting players from U13-U19, the academy includes both a BMO Academy Centre network for local talent and a full time residency program for elite players. Boys teams complete in MLS NEXT, while the Girls Elite Academy participates in League1 BC and national showcases.
Entry is determined through tryouts and scouting, with the top prospects receiving fully funded spots. Training happens year round and is lead by licensed coaches in top tier facilities. The academy is known for producing top national talent.
Barça Academy Vancouver ⚽
Newton Athletic Park, 7395 128 St, Surrey, BC
Affiliated with the prestigious FC Barcelona of Spain, Barça Academy Vancouver brings world-renowned training and expertise based on the club's unique philosophy. Targeting players aged U6-U18, the academy runs year round training and summer camps, including half and full day options. Training is conducted by UEFA certified coaches, and an emphasis is placed on creativity, ball control, and decision making.t
Advanced players may have an opportunity to participate in international events and may even be invited to train in Barcelona. This academy is ideal for players looking for a globally respected brand and methodology rooted in technical excellence.
Learning soccer in Montreal not only builds technical skills but also fosters a strong sense of community and belonging.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Academy Vancouver ⚽
422 Richards St #170, Vancouver, BC
Affiliated with one of the world's most famous teams, PSG Academy provides top level soccer training for players aged U5-U15, using UEFA-certified coaches and a curriculum designed in Paris. Programs include junior development, travel teams, and camps.
Players train 2-3 times a week plus matches and exposure through PSG World Cup events. It is deal for families seeking an internationally recognized program with strong foundations in both individual skill development and team tactics.
VanCity Pro Football Academy ⚽
3677 Kensington Ave, Burnaby, BC
VanCity Pro Football Academy is an independent soccer academy offering training for players aged U8 to U18. Focus is placed technical mastery, tactical understanding, and personal development. As a partner with La Liga's with Villarreal CF, VanCity Pro implements methodologies inspired by coaches like Johan Cruyff and Pep Guardiola.
Programs include weekly training, tournament participation, and international travel experiences. With a commitment to player-centered growth, VanCity Pro is well-suited for aspiring athletes who want a balance of elite-level coaching and character development.
Learning soccer in Ottawa promotes fitness, teamwork, and confidence in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Soccer Camps and Youth Programs in Vancouver
Vancouver has a number of soccer camps and youth programs for families that want to develop their kids' soccer talents and understanding of the game. Here are some of the city's top options.
North Vancouver FC Summer Academy & Camps
North Vancouver Football Club (NVFC) is the largest youth soccer organization in the Lower Mainland, serving over 3,000 players in child, youth, and men's team programs.
NVFC’s year-round programming includes weekly developmental sessions for all skill levels, competitive teams, goalkeeping programs, and extensive summer offerings like full‑day camps for kids. Financial supports are available for eligible players.
Vancouver Athletic FC
Vancouver Athletic FC stands out as a community based club offering accessible soccer for beginners and pathways for players aiming for higher levels. Many VAFC players advance to Metro-Selects, BC Premier League, and even provincial teams . Neighborhood house leagues, competitive teams, and development-focused camps are some of the main options VAFC offers kids and their families.
KLM Soccer Club
Kensington Little-Mountain (KLM) Soccer Club is a community-based, non-profit youth soccer association in Central Vancouver. The club values “community over competition,” supporting beginners and experienced players with qualified staff coaches and enthusiastic parent volunteers.
TKLM is an established, inclusive organization offering a full suite of youth soccer program, including introductory "Tykes" sessions to divisional teams and specialized goalkeeper training. With year-round seasons, seasonal camps, certified coaching.
Along with several financial support options, KLM makes soccer accessible for young players in Vancouver looking to build their skills.
Adult Soccer Leagues in Vancouver
Soccer isn't just for the kids - it is actually one the best ways to stay fit and socialize at any age. Vancouver has plenty of options for adults looking to play recreationally with others. Let's look at some of the best local options.
adults play league soccer!
TOCA Football League
20 Orwell St #5, North Vancouver, BC
Established in 1973, TOCA has 96 teams and competitions feeding national qualifiers. Minimum age is 18, and players can choose between mens, womens, and co-ed groups. Premier membership costs $75 a month and includes unlimited league play and pick-up, Champions membership is $50 per month plus substitutions. Pickup options are also available.
Vancouver Sport & Social Club Urban Rec
Locations around Vancouver
Urban Rec has a social focus with inclusive policies and a fun atmosphere. This adult program has an app you can use to find ways to play soccer and other sports, such as softball, indoor volleyball, and curling. Pricing can range from approximately $1350 a team or $165 per individual.
Indoor facilities like the Edmonton Soccer Dome allow for year-round soccer, even during the winter months..
Vancouver Athletic FC
Vancouver Athletic FC (VAFC) also has adult men's and women's teams in addition to their kids teams. VAFC men's teams play in the Vancouver Metro Soccer League, while women's teams play in the Metro Women's Soccer League. Assessments for adult players are typically held prior to the start of each season, but teams may continue to add new players during the season.
Soccer Facilities and Public Pitches in Vancouver
Vancouver and its surrounding municipalities have publicly funded parks that groups can book for their soccer games. Here is a list of public soccer fields and their locations in Vancouver.
| Park | Address | Neighborhood | Fields Available |
| Prince of Wales Park | 4780 Haggart Street | Arbutus Ridge | 1 |
| Trafalgar Park | 2610 W 23rd Avenue | Arbutus Ridge | 2 |
| Andy Livingstone Park | 89 Expo Boulevard | Downtown | 2 |
| David Lam | 1300 Pacific Boulevard | Downtown | 1 |
| Chaldecott Park | 4175 Wallace Street | Dunbar-Southlands | 2 |
| McBride Park | 3350 W 4th Avenue | Kitsilano | 1 |
| China Creek North Park | 1001 E 7th Avenue | Mount Pleasant | 1 |
| Montgomery Park | 1040 W 43rd Avenue | Oakridge | 2 |
| Strathcona Park | 857 Malkin Avenue | Strathcona | 5 |
Hiring a Private Soccer Coach
If you are looking to elevate your game, or want a soccer-based approach to fitness training, you may want to consider hiring a private soccer coach. A private soccer coach can work with you to meet your personal athletic and fitness goals on your own schedule and timeline.
Have you got kids who are serious soccer players? A private soccer coach can support them in developing their playing skills, whether it is mastering a header or perfecting a penalty kick. One-to-one attention can do wonders in helping your child to grow as a player and build their confidence and self-esteem if they have a big tryout coming up.
Superprof Canada can connect you with local soccer coaches in the Vancouver area in minutes: just use the search tool on the site to find the right coach for your needs. Find a private soccer coach on Superprof today!
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