Families in Mississippi Mills are preparing for the upcoming outdoor season as local soccer programs begin accepting registrations for youth players. With the sport seeing increased national focus as part of Canada’s Year of Sport, local organizations are adjusting their programs to meet new national quality requirements.
The Almonte Soccer Club is currently managing registration for the 2026 outdoor season. The club, which is a member of the Eastern Ontario District Soccer Association, offers programs ranging from Soccer School for children in the U4 to U6 age groups, up to recreational teams for players as old as 18.
Families looking to participate can register online, with an early bird discount available until 11:59 p.m. on March 31. Final registration for all divisions closes at 11:59 p.m. on April 30, and the season through the Goulbourn Lanark Soccer League is set to begin with opening games on Tuesday, May 19.
In addition to the club programs, the Municipality of Mississippi Mills is hosting a separate youth soccer program in Pakenham for children born between 2014 and 2021. This municipal program offers divisions for students from kindergarten through grade six. Registration for this option opens on Thursday, April 9, for Mississippi Mills residents only at the John Levi Community Centre in Almonte, followed by a registration date in Pakenham on April 15.
This year, all youth programs are required to follow the new Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards. These national requirements mandate that clubs provide fun, accessible, and developmentally appropriate environments for young athletes. These changes coincide with a broader push by the federal government to increase support for youth sporting experiences as the country prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup 2026.
