FAQ

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Training

What is Skill Up Training?

Skill Up Training is a professional soccer development program dedicated to developing skilled, confident players through a structured curriculum that emphasizes technical excellence, physical development, and mental resilience, while fostering a lifelong passion for the game and creating positive experiences with physical activity.

What age groups do you serve?

We offer programs for players ages 6-16, with age-specific training approaches:

• FUNdamenral Program: Ages 4-5

• Development Program: Ages 6-9

• Performance Program: Ages 10-14

• Camps: Ages 6-14

Where are your training locations?

We operate at multiple locations across the Durham Region, including Whitby, Ajax, Bowmanville, Brooklin, and Courtice. Specific location details for each program are provided during registration.

We train in local indoor gyms and outdoor fields depending on the season and program.
Access to training spaces is available 15 minutes before the session begins.
Free parking is available at all training locations.

What makes Skill Up Training different from other programs?

Our program stands out through our professional coaching staff, player-centered approach, structured curriculum focusing on dribbling, passing, and decision-making, and our commitment to creating positive experiences that foster lifelong passion for the game. We emphasize both technical excellence and healthy habits that benefit players on and off the field.

What is futsal and why do you use it?

Futsal is a fast-paced, indoor version of soccer played on a hard court with a smaller, low-bounce ball. It promotes quick thinking, close control, and creativity—all essential for player development.

Who is leading the training?

All sessions are led by certified coaches, including Douglas Arienti, who brings years of coaching experience and a background in professional futsal and youth education.

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Registration & Scheduling

How do I register my child for Skill Up Training?

Registration is available through our website's Registration Hub. Simply select the program and location, complete the online registration form, and submit payment to secure your spot.

What are your program fees?

Program fees vary based on the specific program, session length, and frequency. Current pricing information is available on our Registration Hub page. 

Do you offer trial sessions?

Yes, we offer trial sessions for new players interested in experiencing our training approach before committing to a full program. Contact us to arrange a trial session at the appropriate age group.

What is your cancellation/refund policy?

Skill Up Training operates with a no refund policy. Once registration is complete, fees are non-refundable. We understand that circumstances can change, so in certain cases, we may offer a credit toward a future program if notified in advance and space allows.

What happens if a session is canceled due to weather?

Sessions may be canceled due to severe weather conditions. We make every effort to provide indoor alternatives when possible.

 

Training Approach & Curriculum

What is your training methodology?

Our training methodology follows a structured progression focusing on three core elements: dribbling excellence, passing precision, and game-intelligent decision making. Each session follows a purposeful structure that includes a dynamic warm-up, technical development, and game application to ensure skills transfer to match situations.

What is a typical training session like?

Each session follows a three-part structure:

1. Dynamic Warm-Up (15 minutes): Ball work combined with movement preparation

2. Technical Development (30 minutes): Focused skill work with high repetition and detailed coaching

3. Game Application (15 minutes): Small-sided games and conditioned activities that apply skills in realistic scenarios

What is the player-to-coach ratio?

We maintain low player-to-coach ratios to ensure quality instruction:

• Foundation Program (Ages 4-5): 8:1 maximum

• Development Program (Ages 6-9): 10:1 maximum

• Performance Program (Ages 10-14): 12:1 maximum

• Camps: 15:1 maximum

Do you group players by ability?

Yes, within each age group, we assess players and create appropriate training cohorts based on current ability and development stage. This ensures players are appropriately challenged and can progress at their optimal pace.

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Equipment & Preparation

What should my child bring to training?

Players should bring:

• Appropriate footwear (soccer cleats for outdoor, indoor shoes for indoor sessions)

• Skill Up Training Uniform

• Shin guards (optional)

• Water bottle

• Weather-appropriate training attire

Is there a uniform or kit requirement?

Players need to wear Skill Up Training uniform, which are available for purchase during registration. 

What if my child has special medical needs or allergies?

Please inform us of any medical conditions, allergies, or special needs during registration.

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Parent Involvement

Can parents watch training sessions?

Yes, parents are welcome to observe training sessions from designated viewing areas. We ask that parents respect the coaching environment and refrain from coaching from the sidelines during sessions.

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Camps

Are camps full-day or half-day?

Most of our camps run as full-day sessions (mornings or afternoons). Check the camp details page for specific times and locations.