What is TOFC?
TOFC (Thompson Okanagan Football Club) is the interior regional representative of the BCSPL (BC Soccer Premier League) also known as the HPL (High Performance League). The BCSPL is the highest level of youth soccer within the province. It is supported by both BC Soccer and the Whitecaps as a pathway for higher level players. TOFC is the only BC Interior representative within the eight team league. The TOFC mission is to fulfill our player’s needs by becoming an organization committed to excellence and advancement in the discipline of soccer. Our goal is to create an active and healthy community by focusing on children and youth in harmony with Canada’s Long Term Athlete Development Model
How is TOFC different than Select?
TOFC has a year round focus and plays in a higher level league than the select programs. The BCSPL is one step up from the TOYSL League (Select Level A and B) in terms of competition level. Coaches must meet minimum coaching standards. The annual schedule follows a periodization plan laid out by BC Soccer. TOFC competes for the Premier Cup as opposed to the A and B provincial cups.
Where do TOFC players come from?
All of the TOYSL clubs have representation in the TOFC programs, TOFC appreciates and supports all of the Interior clubs in their efforts to promote their talent to TOFC for the next level of player development. TOFC also has representation from other areas of the interior.
Why the BCSPL?
It is the goal of BC Soccer to continue to be committed to a comprehensive approach to improve player development in British Columbia, ultimately, to make Canada a stronger soccer nation. Part of the broad-based plan was the creation and development of a High Performance League in BC. This league is known as the “EA SPORTS BC SOCCER PREMIER LEAGUE” The EA Sports BC Soccer Premier League will deliver on the following key development initiatives:
- Supports CSA’s “Player First” mentality and it’s Long Term Player Development strategy
- Harmonizes all high performance levels of programming
- Eliminates congestion and provides greater clarity for all stakeholders
- Works within existing and supporting structures
- Drives improvements to all aspects of high performance soccer
When do the teams play?
We play 21 games or more of league play split into two seasons. A Spring/Summer season (Phase 1) and Fall season (Phase 2). League play begins in late February and goes until November. Breaks occur in the programming during summer and the winter.
When do the teams practice?
The teams practice a minimum of two times a week with a potential third session. As TOFC is a regional representation, each team manages locations differently. Current practice schedules can be found on the TOFC website. TOFC.CA
What is the cost and what do the fees cover?
The cost for a player is generally around the $2500-3500 mark annually, but can fluctuate depending on numbers and sponsorships. TOFC is always looking for sponsors to help alleviate the costs associated with the league. Fees go towards a variety of expenses, including club admin, salaries, uniforms (full kits), field rentals, bus travel to away games, hotels for overnight trips, Whitecaps showcase tournament, Adidas Cup tournament, referee fees etc. To compare, a typical Select program is around $700 and is an 8 game schedule.
Are coaches paid?
Yes, all coaches are contracted and receive a monthly amount for their services. Amounts range from $5000-$8000 per year.
Are there guidelines around coaches?
TOFC takes the stance that coaches should not be coaching their own children, and we make our best efforts to ensure that does not happen. TOFC also looks to have coaches switch teams every two years.
Where does TOFC fit in the big picture?
Below is a pyramid categorizing the different levels of sanctioned youth soccer in BC. TOFC sits just below the Provincial Program and just above the Select programs. The BCSPL is the recognized pathway as both the PDP (Provincial Development Program) and the Whitecaps look to the BCSPL as a primary source of talent for their programming. University and College scouts have also commented on the abundance of talent in one representation. If your player is looking to get scouted, the BCSPL is one of the best avenues for them.
How do I become a part of TOFC?
Please visit our website at TOFC.CA ?