Horizon Academy League

STRUCTURED. COMPETITIVE. DEVELOPMENT-DRIVEN.

Horizon Academy League (www.horizonsoccer.com) is a professionally operated youth league designed specifically for academy-level programs seeking consistency, quality competition, and a development-first environment. The league provides a structured framework that supports long-term player development while maintaining appropriate competitive standards.

The league emphasizes set tournament schedules, reduced travel, and professional officiating, offering stability and predictability for clubs and families throughout the season. Centralized operations ensure clear communication, consistent standards, and a positive, well-managed matchday experience across all divisions.

To support motivation and recognize achievement, the Horizon Academy League incorporates prizes and incentives, including team recognition and individual acknowledgements. These incentives are designed to reinforce league standards and provide meaningful recognition without shifting focus away from development.

Additionally, the league integrates media engagement and storytelling, highlighting players, teams, and key moments to enhance visibility and community connection while maintaining a development-first focus.

Horizon will bring certain minimum standards for the teams and players including:

• Coach minimum certification (soccer for life)
• Staff CRC requirement (criminal record check)
• Player & staff insurance (BCSA compliant).

MARCEL DE JONG

Former Canadian international and professional defender with experience in top European and North American competitions, including the German Bundesliga, Major League Soccer (MLS), and the Canadian Men’s National Team. Marcel competed six years in Germany with FC Augsburg and later played a key role with Vancouver Whitecaps FC, bringing leadership and elite professional standards to the Canadian game.

At the international level, he represented the Canada Men’s National Soccer Team, gaining experience in high-performance national-team environments.

Over the past five years, Marcel has been closely involved in youth player development, operating academies and working hands-on with players and coaches, bridging professional football standards with modern academy training and clear player development pathways.

Player & Team Recognition acknowledges effort and achievement, reinforcing positive
standards and motivating continued development throughout the season.