Programs

At Halifax County United, our programs are designed to nurture players at every stage, from grassroots enjoyment to elite competition. At HCU you will find excellent coaching, a supportive environment, and a clear pathway for growth.

Many HCU programs operate out of the BMO Soccer Centre indoor fields and outdoor turf fields adjacent to that complex, we also offer community programs within our catchment area of Larry Uteck, Kingswood, Tantallon, Timberlea, and Prospect Rd.

FALL PROGRAMS

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

We are excited to once again offer our 4-week program, "Fall Soccer with Joe," for players U8 (2018) to U13 (2013).
Coach Joe Iatrou will focus on ball mastery, helping each player build adaptable skills for the game, supported by HCU coaches. Each week will feature a new technical objective, and sessions will finish with 30 minutes of small-sided games where players can apply what they’ve learned.
This program is limited to 50 spots per session, so don’t miss the chance to sharpen your skills and get a head start on the winter season!
Joe is one of Halifax’s most respected senior players, with success at the AUS level and in Soccer Nova Scotia competitions including the Canada Games. He currently serves as an HCU Staff Coach/Skill Centre Lead and is also the UKC Men’s Striker Coach.

PROGRAM LOCATION AND SCHEDULE:
Monday
2016-2018 Boys 5:00-6:00pm
2013-2015 Boys 6:00-7:00pm
Location: Ridgecliff Middle School

Start Date: September 15th
End Date: October 6th
Total Sessions: 4

Thursday
2016-2018 Girls 5:00-6:00pm
2013-2015 Girls 6:00-7:00pm
Location: BLT Jr Elementary

Start Date: September 18th
End Date: October 9th
Total Sessions: 4
COACHING:
Led by Joe Iatrou and supported by HCU’s top young coaches.

UNIFORM & EQUIPMENT:
Grey training top or black game jersey (Mini Program jerseys are also acceptable).
Shin guards and water bottle required.

COST:
$49.00 (4 sessions)

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
We are excited to announce that our Fall Saturdays program is open to U13 (2012)-U15 (2011) boys and girls of all skill levels. This is a great opportunity for players to meet up with friends, play the game we love, and learn from each other in a fun and supportive environment. Whether you're new to soccer or looking to hone your skills, these sessions are for you!
PROGRAM LOCATION AND SCHEDULE
Start Date: September 14th
End Date: October 5th
Total Sessions: 4
Sunday
2011-2012 Boys & Girls 10:30-12:00pm
Location: Ridgechliff Middle School

UNIFORM & EQUIPMENT:
Grey training top or black game jersey.
Shin guards and water bottle required.

COST:
$49.00 (4 sessions)

Communication

TeamSnap will be updated throughout the season with any schedule changes, location updates, or cancellations.
Please refer to TeamSnap regularly to stay up to date with the most current weekly schedules.
An invitation will be sent to the email address used for registration one week before the program begins.

Winter PROGRAMS

Program Description:
The HCU Micro’s Program introduces young children to soccer in a fun, engaging, and supportive environment. With a strong emphasis on physical literacy and social interaction, this program blends structured activities with free play, helping players develop:
- Fundamental soccer skills
- Basic motor abilities
- New friendships
Age Groups:
- U3 (Born 2023): A guardian participates alongside their child, creating a fun and interactive experience.
- U5 (Born 2021/2022): Players build confidence and independence through coach-led activities while developing key skills.
To support learning beyond the field, HCU provides “Soccer at Home” resources—a collection of fun, soccer-based activities for players and parents to enjoy together.
Cost:
- U3 Micro’s and U5 Micro’s: $?? (Full winter)
- U3 Micro’s and U5 Micro’s Block 1 (Week of October 27th - Week of December 15th: 8 Weeks): $??
- U3 Micro’s and U5 Micro’s Block 2 (Week of January 5th - Week of February 23rd: 8 Weeks): $??
Each Micro’s Program player receives:
- Jersey
- Shorts
- Socks
- Soccer Ball
- Medal
All Players Must Wear:
- Futsal shoes or indoor sneakers (no cleats, as sessions are in the gym)
Program Locations & Schedule:
U3 Micro’s Program:
- Bay View High School Gym – Sunday | 9:00 – 9:45 PM
U5 Micro’s Program:
- Bay View High School Gym – Sunday | 10:00 – 10:45 PM
Start Date: November 2nd
End Date: March 1st
Duration: 16 Weeks

Program Description:
The HCU Mini Program is the foundation of our soccer community, where young players begin their journey in a fun, supportive, and engaging environment. This program focuses on fostering a love for the game while developing foundational soccer skills, teamwork, and confidence.
Sessions are led by trained HCU staff coaches, who design activities to keep players active, engaged, and excited to return each season. The HCU Way ensures players develop their technical abilities and game understanding in a playful, high-energy setting.
Cost:
- U7 Boys/Girls Minis (Born 2019/2020): $??
- U9 Boys/Girls Minis (Born 2017/2018): $??
- U11 Boys/Girls Minis (Born 2015/2016): $??
Uniform & Equipment:
Each Mini Program player receives:

U7 Program:
- Jersey
- Shorts
- Socks
- Soccer Ball
- Medal
U9 & U11 Programs:
- T Shirts
- Soccer Ball
All Players Must Wear:
- Futsal shoes or indoor sneakers (no cleats, as sessions are in the gym)
Program Locations & Schedule:
U7 Mini Program:
- Bay View High School Gym – Boys & Girls: Saturday | 9:00 – 10:00 AM
U9 Mini Program:
- Bay View High School Gym
  – Boys: Saturday | 10:00-11:00 AM
  – Girls: Saturday | 11:00 – 12:00 PM
U11 Mini Program:
- Bay View High School Gym
  – Boys: Saturday | 12:00-1:00 PM
  – Girls: Saturday | 11:00 – 12:00 PM

Program Description:
The U7-U11 Skill Centre Program is the foundation of our competitive stream, known as the Heart of HCU and what we do best.

Designed for committed young players, this program provides a structured and supportive environment to develop technical skills, game intelligence, and positive behavioural habits. Players learn sportsmanship, respect, and teamwork, helping them grow both as athletes and individuals.

At the core of our development philosophy is “The HCU Way”, which uses consistent game cues to teach players how to read the game and make better decisions under pressure. This method ensures that each player progresses with confidence and clarity while developing soccer intelligence.

Cost:
- U7/8 Boys & Girls Skill Centre (Born 2018/2019): $??
- U9 Boys & Girls Skill Centre (Born 2017): $??
- U10 Boys & Girls Skill Centre (Born 2016): $??
- U11 Boys & Girls Skill Centre (Born 2015): $??
Uniform & Equipment:
All Skill Centre players are required to purchase HCU gear. Further details on purchasing uniforms from the club directly for the Winter 2025/26 season will be sent via email, so please check regularly for updates.

HCU Gear Includes:
- Jersey
- Shorts
- Socks
- Training Top
Program Locations & Schedule:
U7–U11 Skill Centre Program
The Skill Centre program will include two sessions per week:
Weekday Session
(Monday–Thursday, 6:00–7:00pm or 7:00–8:00pm)
The final schedule will be posted in the first week of October.
Weekend Session
- U7–U9: With jamborees every second Sunday, sessions will be held on Saturdays at Bay View High School Gym (afternoon). Time TBD.
- U10–U11: With jamborees every second Saturday, sessions will be held on Sundays at Bay View High School Gym (afternoon). Time TBD.
Winter Skill Centre Kick Off Day:
For U7–U11 Skill Centre players, we will host a special kickoff event where players can meet their teammates and coaches. The day will feature small-sided game stations, giving players a chance to get on the court right away while coaches observe and assess.
This event will also serve as an assessment day for our U8–U11 Academy. In late October, all Skill Centre players will be invited to participate in this event. Following the small-sided games, individual invitations will be sent to selected players for the Academy program.
A short parent meeting will also be held to provide important program details.
Date: TBD (Late October)
Location: BMO Soccer Centre
Time: TBD
*Teams have not been finalized yet. Your player will be added to a specific team on TeamSnap after this event.

Volunteer Opportunities:
To ensure the success of the program, we are looking for parent volunteer coaches to help run sessions smoothly and assist during activities. Additionally, each team will need a Team Manager to foster team chemistry, track attendance, and assist with organizing events.

If you’re interested in volunteering as a Coach or Team Manager, please [click here] to fill out the form. Your support is essential in making this program a success.

Program Description:
The U8–U11 HCU Academy Program is designed for players who are ready for additional challenges beyond the Skill Centre environment. This program identifies athletes who demonstrate not only advanced technical ability, but also the right attitude, dedication, engagement, and hunger to compete.
The Academy provides a higher-level training environment that emphasizes both individual growth and team development. Players will continue to follow “The HCU Way,” learning to apply consistent game cues, make better decisions under pressure, and build the behaviours needed for long-term success.
Our goal is to place Academy teams in either an older age group or the top pool within their age group, depending on the quality and readiness of the group.
It’s important to note that not receiving an Academy invitation does not mean a player has been left behind. Development is ongoing, and our staff (including the Technical Director) are always monitoring for effort and progress throughout the season. We encourage players to view this as motivation to continue improving, while also celebrating the opportunity to make new friends and experiences through soccer.
Cost:
U8–U10 Boys & Girls Academy (Born 2015–2017): $??
U11 Boys & Girls Academy (Born 2014): $??
Uniform & Equipment:
All Academy players are required to purchase HCU gear. Further details on purchasing uniforms from the club directly for the Winter 2025/26 season will be sent via email, so please check regularly for updates.
HCU Gear Includes:
- Jersey
- Shorts
- Socks
- Training Top
Players must also wear futsal shoes or clean indoor sneakers for all gym sessions.
Program Locations & Schedule:
U8–U10 Academy
- 1 Saturday gym session (afternoon, Bay View High School Gym – Time TBD)
- 1 Thursday turf session at BMO Soccer Centre (5:00–6:00pm or 6:00–7:00pm, TBD)
U11 Academy
- 2 turf sessions per week (BMO Soccer Centre – Schedule TBD)
- 1 Sunday gym session (Bay View High School Gym – Time TBD)
Game schedules will follow the same format as the Skill Centre program.
Winter Skill Centre Kick Off Day (Assessment):
All U7–U11 Skill Centre players will be invited to the Winter Kick Off Day in late October. The event will include small-sided games where coaches will observe players in action. Following the event, Academy invitations will be sent individually.
Date: TBD (Late October)
Location: Bay View High School Gym
Time: TBD

Program Description:
The U12-U18 Recreational Program at HCU offers a balanced, player-centered environment designed for players who enjoy soccer and want to continue developing their skills while maintaining a fun and engaging experience.
This program serves players in the 12B, 13B, 15B, and 18A teams, and provides a great opportunity for those looking to play regularly while participating in a supportive, community-driven atmosphere.

Cost:
- U12B Boys & Girls (Born 2014): $??
- U13B Boys & Girls (Born 2013): $??
- U15B Boys & Girls (Born 2011/2012): $??
- U18A Boys & Girls (Born 2008/2009/2010): $??
Uniform & Equipment:
Further details on purchasing uniforms from the club directly for the Winter 2025/26 season will be sent via email, so please check regularly for updates.
Program Locations & Schedule:
- Training: One gym session per week, focused on skill development and game understanding.
- Games: One match per week, with teams competing in the Nova Scotia Soccer League (NSSL), fostering a competitive but supportive environment.

Program Description:
U12-U18 (Competitive) consists of the following teams (12A/AA,13A/AA, 15A/AA & 18AA).

The focus on the continued individual and team development preparing our players for increased commitment to the game at higher and higher levels. Sessions cover the 5 Development Pillars (Technical, Physical, Mental, Tactical and Social Emotional) in a team setting.

HCU is a leader in this space, where all teams have a Head Coach dedicated to one team who either has their C license or is working toward their C license, and a trained Team Manager.

Cost:
Team Formation fee of $25.
- U12A Boys & Girls (Born 2014): $??
- U12AA Boys & Girls (Born 2014): $??
- U13A Boys & Girls (Born 2013): $??
  U13AA Boys & Girls (Born 2013): $??
- U15A Boys & Girls (Born 2011/2012): $??
- U15AA Boys & Girls (Born 2011/2012): $??
- U18AA Boys & Girls (Born 2008/2009/2010): $??
Uniform & Equipment:
Further details on purchasing uniforms from the club directly for the Winter 2025/26 season will be sent via email, so please check regularly for updates.
Program Locations & Schedule:
U12AA/U13AA/U15AA Teams:
- 2 turf sessions plus 1 game every week.
- HCU teams will be participating in the Nova Scotia Soccer League (NSSL).
U12A/U13A/U15A/U18AA Teams:
- 1 turf session and 1 gym session plus 1 game every week.
- HCU teams will be participating in the Nova Scotia Soccer League (NSSL).
Tryouts:
Please [click here] to see the team formation schedule.
If you have any questions, please contact Registrar@HCUsoccer.ca.

Program Description:
Our 15AAA & 17AAA program is for players looking to take their game to the highest level. These players generally aspire to play in College, University and/or in professional environments.

AAA teams train 3 times per week (on turf) and extra curriculum to boost the potential in their team environments, and have other opportunities for additional free training in adjacent teams, players will also be encouraged to participate in “HCU Academy” training blocks.
Our aim here is to provide the highest level of programming while remaining flexible on a player level, where multi sport athletes, Provincial/REX/Whitecaps/Canada Games/Wanderers prospect players can both pursue those avenues while participating in a club level environment that delivers the highest quality of Coaching, lead by Directors who can connect players to Provincial, College, University, and Professional trial opportunities when the time comes.

Cost:
Team Formation fee of $25.
- U15AAA Boys & Girls (Born 2011/2012): $??
- U17 Boys & Girls (Born 2009/2010): $??
Uniform & Equipment:
Further details on purchasing uniforms from the club directly for the Winter 2025/26 season will be sent via email, so please check regularly for updates.
Program Locations & Schedule:
- Practice 3 times per week with one game / week.
- Extra curriculum opportunities, such as Strength and Conditioning, will be added.
- HCU teams will be participating in the Nova Scotia Soccer League (NSSL).
HCU offers optional extra training that targets the individual needs of the player at this age/stage targeting the 5 Development Pillars.

Tryouts:
Please [click here] to see the team formation schedule.
If you have any questions, please contact Registrar@HCUsoccer.ca.