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FAQ

How do I register my athlete?

Registration opens January 1st 2026. 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:

  • Sat 3rd 2-5PM

  • Thurs 8th 6:30-8:30PM 

  • Sat 10th 12-3PM

  • CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER- Thurs 15th  

  • Sat 17th 2-5PM

  • Mon 19th 6:30-8:30PM

  • Thurs 22nd 6:30-8:30PM

  • Sat 24th 2-5PM

 

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.

 

What age divisions does Spears offer?

Niagara Spears fields teams at levels  U14, U16, and U18. 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 are $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.

 

Can parents volunteer?

Yes! Families are required to dedicate a minimum of 5 hours helping at events. Niagara Spears relies on dedicated volunteers for  game-day operations and team events. Possible duties include (not limited to):

Participation Bond- Approved Roles

 

  • Big Red Fundraiser

    • Unload delivery truck into club house

    • load vehicles

    • double check vehicles have appropriate amount of items once loaded

 

  • Team Roles (**person to be approved by Team Manager and must be the same person all season as they need to be included on Team Roster)

    • Stats x2, 

    • Game day photographer 

    • Game day video 

 

  • Game Day (*4 season home games and any playoff games for each team, we encourage people to volunteer for teams their children are not playing on, players should only volunteer AFTER their game) 

    • Set Up

    • Concessions

      • BBQ

      • Cash

      • Hand out drinks

      • Hand out food

    • Gate x2

    • 50/50 x2

    • Runner (ice and water)

    • Tear down

 

Who do I contact for help or questions?

Head to our contact us page for all our contact information.

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