Who/what is the Niagara Spears?

The Niagara Spears are the Niagara Region's travel/rep football program, providing a higher level of competition than local house leagues. Teams compete against other elite programs across Ontario through the provincial football league, with away games requiring bus travel. Athletes receive structured coaching, regular practices, strength and skill development, athletic therapy support during contact sessions, and the opportunity to compete at a high level. The travel (rep) program is designed for athletes who want to compete against the top players in Ontario and prepare for high school, university, or higher levels of football.

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How do I register my athlete?

Registration opens January 1st 2027. Registration can be done online BUT all athletes MUST attend an in person date for equipment pick up and swag sizing. Registering online will make in person process quicker.

In person dates:

• TBA

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What information do I need to register?

You’ll need your athlete’s Football Ontario National Registry Number, athletes personal information, emergency and medical information, and a payment method for fees. Football Ontario National Registry opens December 1st 2026.

 

What age divisions does Spears offer?

Niagara Spears fields teams at levels  U14, U16, and U18 men's football and U16 and U19 women's. Divisions are determined by athlete’s birth year. 

 

When does the season run?

The regular season typically runs from May to beginning of August, with pre-season tryouts beginning as early as January.

 

How much does registration cost?

2026 fees were $1000.00. Payment is due in 3 instalments: $300 at time of registration (non-refundable). $350 due Feb 28 and the last $350 due April 4, we also offer fundraising and sponsorship programs to help with costs and accept funding from programs like Jump Start. *If an athlete is unsuccessful in securing a position on a team a portion of fees will be refunded. 

 

What equipment is required?

Players will need cleats, a mouth guard, and practice clothing. Niagara Spears provides helmets and pads, but players may use their own approved equipment if desired- helmets must match the Niagara Spears Cardinal Red and personal equipment must be checked by a head coach- and a waiver signed off.

 

What if my child is new to football?

All skill levels are welcome! Spears focuses on player development, teamwork, and safety. Our coaching staff ensures new players learn fundamentals in a supportive environment, however, equal playing time is unrealistic.

 

When and where are practices and games held?

Tryouts- information is still being confirmed. Practices are held at Kiwanis Field or DSBN Academy in St. Catharines, other fields or training facilities may be used. Game schedules and locations are shared once the league releases them with potential travel all over Ontario. Team travel is provided for athletes to away games.

 

How are teams selected?

Players attend evaluation sessions (tryouts). Coaches form teams based on  skill level, and positional needs to ensure balanced competition.

 

My athlete plays hockey/basketball, can they still register?

Absolutely! We encourage multi-sport athletes, and many of our players compete in hockey, basketball, soccer, and other sports.

While football tryouts and training camps may begin anytime from January through March, the regular season doesn't begin until early to mid-May. This allows many athletes to finish their winter sport commitments before transitioning to football.

Hockey season typically wraps up in April, and basketball generally finishes in May, making it possible for many athletes to participate in both.

At the Niagara Spears, we strongly believe in respecting every sport. If an athlete commits to a hockey or basketball team, we expect them to finish that season before joining us. In return, when football season begins, we ask for the same commitment and respect from our athletes. Being a multi-sport athlete develops stronger, more well-rounded athletes—and we're proud to support that journey.

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Who do I contact if I have more questions?

Head on over to our contact page and message one of our Team Managers or Secretary!