Drop-In Individual / Partner Training
Targeted technical support to reinforce your player’s development.
Drop-In Individual and Partner Training at Unity FC provides focused, coach-led sessions designed to support and reinforce a player’s primary development pathway within Players First.
These sessions are most effective when used intentionally — alongside Training Pods, the Ambitious Player Development Plan (IDP), or structured team training elsewhere.
They are not designed to replace a long-term development environment, but to make that environment more effective.
How Drop-In Training Fits Within Players First
Most players at Unity FC train primarily through:
Training Pods — consistent, small-group weekly environments
Ambitious Player Development Plan (IDP) — guided, long-term development support
Drop-In Individual and Partner Training exists to:
reinforce key themes from ongoing training
target specific technical or positional needs
provide short-term support between training blocks
offer flexibility when additional focus is needed
It works best when used with purpose, not as a stand-alone solution.
Session Focus & Structure
Drop-In sessions are technical-first and intentionally designed around the player’s on-ball and positional development.
Sessions typically focus on:
ball mastery and technical repetition
position-specific actions
decision-making in applied scenarios
real-time coaching feedback
Integrated SAQ and physical preparation is reserved for structured Players First pathways, including Training Pods and the Ambitious Player Development Plan (IDP), where it can be delivered consistently and with long-term intent.
Individual Training
One-on-one coaching, tailored to the player
Individual Training allows coaches to design sessions around a player’s specific needs, position, and development goals.
Best suited for players who want to:
sharpen a specific technical area
build confidence through focused attention
prepare for a combine, trial, or return to play
reinforce themes from Pods or IDP
What to expect:
1-on-1 coaching
customized session design
position-specific focus
direct, real-time feedback
Session Rate:
$105 / 60-minute session
Partner Training
Shared intensity. Purposeful competition.
Partner Training allows two players to train together while still receiving focused coaching and clear objectives.
Best suited for players who:
regularly train together (friends, teammates, siblings)
benefit from shared competition and accountability
want a higher-energy environment than 1-on-1 sessions
What to expect:
2 players per session
shared technical themes
competitive elements built into drills
coach attention balanced between both players
Session Rate:
$180 / 60-minute session (2 players)
When Drop-In Training Makes the Most Sense
Drop-In Individual / Partner Training is most effective when:
paired with Training Pods or IDP
used to target a specific development goal
scheduled strategically between training blocks
used as short-term support rather than long-term structure
For players seeking consistent weekly development and progression, Training Pods or IDP are the recommended starting points.
Looking for a More Structured Path?
If your player is seeking:
consistent weekly training
accountability and progression
integrated technical and physical development
long-term planning and guidance
Primary Players First pathways:
Explore Training Pods
Learn About the IDP
Not Sure What’s Right for Your Player?
Choosing the right environment matters.
If you’re unsure whether Individual Training, Partner Training, Training Pods, or IDP is the best fit, we’re happy to help guide that conversation.
Meet the Coaches
Paul Ballard
Paul Ballard is the Sporting Director of Unity FC and a former professional player whose experience spans North America, Africa, and Europe. A standout at Trinity Western University, Paul represented Canada at the U20 levelbefore enjoying a professional career in the USL, South Africa, and Northern Ireland, where he developed a well-rounded perspective on the global game.
Since transitioning into coaching, Paul has earned both his UEFA A Coaching License and Canada Soccer A License, and spent the past nine years leading the Bishop’s University men’s and women’s programs. His coaching philosophy is grounded in intentional, player-centered development — with a focus on tactical understanding, professionalism, and long-term growth.
At Unity FC, Paul leads the club’s technical strategy, program design, and developmental pathways. His leadership is instrumental in building an environment where ambitious players — from youth to pro — can thrive.
Tristan Corneil
Tristan Corneil brings a unique blend of international pedigree and local leadership to Unity FC’s Player Development team. A current defender with Vancouver Rise FC Academy competing in the W Concacaf Champions Cup, Tristan is known for her tactical intelligence, composure under pressure, and ability to lead by example in high-performance environments.
Her playing career includes time with AC Sparta Praha, one of the Czech Republic’s top clubs, where she featured in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, gaining elite-level experience on the European stage. Since returning to British Columbia, she’s represented both Unity FC and Rise FC, making her a familiar and respected figure in the League1 BC landscape.
Now a coach and mentor, Tristan brings deep insight to position-specific training, especially for defenders and transitional players. She is committed to building confident, intelligent athletes prepared to perform at the next level.
💬 FAQs
This program is designed for ambitious players aged 12 and up. Whether you're a youth club player, a high school standout, a university athlete, or preparing for professional opportunities — our training is tailored to help you grow in the technical, tactical, physical, and mental sides of the game.
Players are grouped by age, ability, and positional needs, ensuring a challenging but supportive environment. This allows for more effective training and meaningful peer-to-peer competition.
Weekday sessions are focused on individual or partner-based training — ideal for sharpening your tools, getting personal feedback, and working on specific areas of growth.
Weekend sessions are small-group based (max 6–9 per coach) and emphasize game-relevant scenarios, small-sided tactical play, and positional combinations to apply your skills in context.
Absolutely. You can drop in anytime or purchase a multi-session package at a discount. Flexibility is built in, whether you want to train once a week or 3–4x weekly.
Weekday sessions take place at Cloverdale Athletic Park. Weekend sessions take place at Surrey Christian School (Elementary Campus) or other designated training locations in Surrey. Facility details are provided after registration.
Our lead coaches include:
- Paul Ballard (UEFA A License, Canada Soccer A License, former pro & Canada U20)
- Tristan Corneil (UEFA Women’s Champions League alum, current Rise FC defender)
- Rahid Rahiem and Tristan Corneil, with additional guest coaches rotating through the fall.
SAQ stands for Speed, Agility & Quickness — foundational components in every player’s performance. We integrate SAQ into nearly every session to help athletes become more explosive, agile, and reactive under pressure.
That’s what we’re here for. You can contact us directly at camps@unityfc.ca to book a free discovery call, or use our new, soon-to-be launched Player Consulting feature if you're navigating complex development or recruitment decisions.
By registering, you agree that Unity FC may capture photos and videos during sessions for use in promotional materials (social media, website, etc.). If you'd prefer to opt out, please email us at camps@unityfc.ca.
We understand that plans can change. Our refund and cancellation policy is as follows:
- Full Refunds (minus a $25 admin fee): Available up to 72 hours before your scheduled session or start of your multi-week plan.
- Partial Refunds: For multi-week packages (6 or 14 weeks), pro-rated refunds may be issued based on sessions attended, less an administrative fee.
- No Refunds: Within 24 hours of your scheduled session or for missed drop-in sessions without notice.
📌 In case of injury or exceptional circumstances, please contact us directly to discuss options.
If inclement weather or field closures prevent training from taking place, we will notify all registered players via email and/or text. Make-up sessions may be offered where possible. Safety is our top priority.
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