Welcome to Aspire Soccer Development
My name is Richard Fehr, and I will be your soccer Instructor. I’ve had the privilege of coaching and instructing soccer for over 20 years here in Ontario, Canada. My specialty coaching and instructing has been on Futsal. A style of indoor soccer that has significantly shaped my coaching philosophy and approach to the game.
How the Journey Began
My soccer instructor journey began in 2004 at the Scarborough YMCA. During my university years, I was hired as a soccer instructor, and while I was excited about the opportunity, it came with its challenges. At the time, there was no established curriculum, and although I had years of experience as a player, I quickly learned that coaching and teaching the game required a completely different skill set.
Looking back, accepting that position was one of the best decisions I have ever made. It sparked a lifelong passion for coaching, player development, and building meaningful connections through sport. As much as I taught my players, I learned just as much from them. Their unique personalities, learning styles, and perspectives helped shape me into a better coach, challenged me to continually improve my approach, and played a significant role in the growth and development of the program itself. Together, we built an environment that not only developed soccer skills but also fostered confidence, teamwork, and a genuine love for the game.
Discovering the Power of Futsal
As I began working with our players, I noticed a common challenge. Because the program was played indoors on a gymnasium floor, the traditional size 3-5 soccer balls bounced unpredictably, making it difficult for players to develop confidence and control. Many of my students became frustrated, and it was clear that traditional training methods were not producing the results they needed in that environment.
Determined to find a better solution, I discovered Futsal.
​
That discovery sparked years of learning, experimentation, and growth in my programs. I immersed myself in understanding how Futsal could accelerate player development while making the game more enjoyable and engaging. What I found was transformative. By introducing low-bounce balls and small-sided games, players were able to get more touches on the ball, improve their decision-making, and develop technical skills at a much faster rate.
​
The improvement was remarkable. New players gained confidence and control within weeks, while more experienced players were challenged to refine their technique and creativity. Watching players grow, develop, and fall in love with the game became one of the most rewarding parts of my coaching journey.
Building More Than a Soccer Program
With the incredible support of players and their families, what began as a single one-day program continued to grow. Over the next 16 years, I was fortunate to create multiple soccer leagues and offer multiple days of registered soccer classes throughout the community that was being a developed.
​
As the program expanded, I realized that the true goal was never simply to build a successful soccer program. It was about creating a positive and welcoming soccer community—one where players could develop their skills, build confidence, form friendships, and develop a lifelong love for the game.
​
Together, we built a culture that valued growth, sportsmanship, teamwork, and family involvement. It became a community that could be passed from one generation to the next, creating lasting memories and experiences both on and off the field.
A New Chapter in Lindsay
After moving to Lindsay, I was excited to discover a wonderful soccer community that shares many of the same values and goals that have guided me throughout my coaching journey.
​
My vision remains the same: to create a soccer development program that supports players of all ages and abilities, while fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. I believe every player deserves an environment where they can continue learning, growing, and enjoying the game, supported by coaches, teammates, and families who genuinely care about their development.
​
To all of the amazing families, players, and supporters who have been part of this journey—thank you. Your encouragement, trust, and enthusiasm have made everything possible.
​
I am excited about what lies ahead, and I look forward to creating something truly special together.
​
Thank you for reading, and I look forward to meeting you!