Our Story
Founded in East Vancouver, Futbolito Soccer was born from a desire to move away from high-pressure, standardized soccer and toward a child-focused, community model. It is designed as a space where high-level coaching meets the imaginative world of a child.
Whether it’s a child’s first introduction to the pitch or their next step in developing teamwork, the program fosters a welcoming, high-energy atmosphere where learning and play go hand in hand.
More Than Just a Soccer Practice
Rooted in Montessori Sports, Early Child Development, and Canada Soccer Coaching Licence, Futbolito teaches foundational soccer technique through games. By using imaginative play as a vehicle for skill-building, children master ball control and coordination without the stress of traditional drills.
Mixed-Age & Mixed-Gender Play:
We embrace a natural flow where older kids learn empathy by mentoring, and younger ones find inspiration. This mirrors the real world and builds deep social confidence. We prioritize non-competitive exploration for ages 2–6 and introduce light competitiveness for ages 6–8.
The Montessori Sports Distinction
As one of the few programs in Canada integrating AMI-certified Montessori Sports principles, we use the soccer ball to build body awareness and control. We respect each child’s pace by allowing them to observe until they feel ready to join.
Futbolito Community
We’ve traded the “drop-and-go” model for an East Van community atmosphere. Sessions at Garden Park are a weekly highlight where neighbours become friends and families connect.
Meet the Coach
Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, Coach Sofia’s journey spans from national tournaments and varsity captaincy to over a decade of coaching experience. Having led competitive teams in the BC Coastal and Metro Women’s Leagues, as well as adaptive programs for diverse needs, she blends elite technical standards with a child-centered approach.
While she brings high-level expertise to the pitch, her true "magic" lies in her ability to see the world through a child's eyes.
Qualifications:
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Canada Soccer C License (CONCACAF)
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Montessori Sports Certificate (AMI)
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Early Childhood Education Assistant (UBC)
Bilingual Flair: Sofia naturally integrates Spanish into every session, offering a welcoming space for latin families and a fun cultural introduction for all.
Why Families Choose Futbolito
Developmentally Appropriate:
Every session is rooted in ECE principles for ages 2–8.
Community-Minded:
A local East Vancouver setting where inclusivity is the default and parents make real friends.
Non-Competitive Focus:
We celebrate the "thrill of the try" over the score of the game.
Bilingual Environment:
Kids learn Spanish words while mastering ball control.