IModel has been rebranded from a pilot project to a new brand name for SOUTH REGION – the “South Integrated Soccer League”
or “SISL”.  Consistent and cohesive brand presence is critical since the program/league was officially launched. As such, all Regional Districts in 2027 will be adapting standardized branding elements aligned with the new brand identity.  The SISL is designed for boys and girls youth competitive level teams (U14-U18) competing in the LTPD “Soccer for Life” pathway and below the Ontario Player Development League (OPDL).  The SISL is administered in partnership with Ontario Soccer, its member District Associations and designated league service providers.

The SISL is open to any properly registered Club in good standing as defined by the District Association they are registered. 

The intention is to integrate stakeholders and existing competitive structures, with the goal to unify the soccer community and continue moving the game forward by introducing modern solutions and concepts that addresses a number of challenges such as; length of season, self-determination, adequate level of competition, seasonal periodization, promotion & relegation, affordability etc.

SISL drivers are a combination of league criteria and player readiness, with the vision to equally serve all members, allowing even the smallest organization the possibility of being placed at the adequate competitive level based on merit (real-time assessment during the start of the season “Qualification Phase” to advance to either C1 or C2 play) thus eliminating the outdated past model of promotion and relegation.

The framework features suitable long-term player development principles from Canada Soccer and takes into consideration the player stage of development (readiness).

SISL and its dynamics combine essential development elements like; mental preparation, goal setting and learn how to cope with competition while players continue to acquire more advance skills.

The variety of the competitive conditions will give these players an equitable opportunity to develop, which will contribute immensely to best prepare their next steps.

The concept also takes into consideration the importance for our youth players (U14 to U18) to have a good balance between family, sports and education.

The recommendation of 3:1 training to game ratio will allow proper recovery between matches and takes into account how travel impacts behavior.

Overall the SISL brings all members together and bridges many gaps giving more relevance to players in the LTPD “Soccer 4 Life stream”.

This framework underpins very important principles; affordability fairness, inclusiveness, competitiveness, and affordability with achievable goal setting.