Academy
Join the Legacy
Train with the best. Push your limits.
The Guildford Athletic Club High Performance Academy (HPA) offers elite-level training for players in our Division 1, Division 2, and Development programs. This invite-only program focuses on technical precision, tactical awareness, and decision-making in a challenging and supportive environment.
Program Duration
Friday Nights – This schedule provides greater field space and an improved environment for our academy sessions.
Dates:
September 19, 26
October 3, 10, 17, 24
November 7, 14, 21, 28
December 5, 12
Total: 12 sessions
Times:
• U9–U11: 5:00 – 6:15 PM
• U12–U14: 6:15 – 7:30 PM
Registration
This is an invite-only program for players on Division 1, Division 2, and Development teams.
An access code will be required to register and will be provided to eligible teams.
Cost:
• $125.00 per player
Our Academy
The HPA curriculum features a mix of technical and tactical training designed to build confident, intelligent players.
Led by Tom Lowndes, Director of Coaching, and Ryan Donald, Director of Player Development, the program provides small-group training and individualized feedback within a professional environment at Guildford Athletic Club.
Meet the Coaching Staff
Tom Lowndes
Director of Coaching, Guildford Athletic Club
Head Coach, UFV Men’s Soccer
Tom is an accomplished coach with a proven record of success. Since 2015, he has led the University of the Fraser Valley Men’s Soccer Team, earning multiple accolades including two Canada West Final Four appearances and a Bronze Medal.
Before joining GAC, Tom spent 10 years at the BCSPL level with Surrey United, placing over 40 players into university programs, the most of any BCSPL coach in BC.
Ryan Donald
Director of Player Development, Guildford Athletic Club
Ryan brings passion and expertise to every session. His experience across multiple age groups, combined with his playing career and advanced certifications, make him a key part of the Academy’s leadership team. He focuses on helping players reach their full potential through technical improvement and tactical understanding.
Ruben Castelblanco
Senior Staff Coach, Guildford Athletic Club
Ruben has coached at all levels of soccer in BC, including the Vancouver Whitecaps Residency and Academy programs. His technical knowledge and attention to player development make him an integral part of the HPA coaching team.
Building on a Legacy of Success
Guildford Athletic Club has a proud history of developing players who move on to play in BCSPL, university, and professional environments.
The HPA continues that legacy by providing advanced training for committed and ambitious players.
Program Inquiries
For any questions about the High Performance Academy, please contact:
📧 Tom Lowndes, Director of Coaching – doc@guildfordac.com
📧 Ryan Donald, Director of Player Development – assistant.td@guildfordac.com
Ready to play this fall? Click below to register and join the GAC family.
GOALKEEPER ACADEMY
We are excited to announce that Matheus De Souza has joined our coaching staff for this season’s Goalkeeper Academy.
Matheus’ impressive background and passion for developing goalkeepers make him a valuable part of our technical team at Guildford Athletic Club.
About Coach Matheus De Souza
BCSPL Experience
Matheus played at the BCSPL level during his U15 and U16 years before being scouted by the Vancouver Whitecaps Residency Program.
Vancouver Whitecaps MLS Residency
He spent four years at the Vancouver Whitecaps MLS Academy, also making appearances in both the USSDA and BC League 1.
University Athlete
Matheus plays at the University of the Fraser Valley, where he will join Director of Coaching Tom Lowndes and compete to earn the starting goalkeeper position in the Canada West Conference.
Coaching Experience
Matheus has been part of GAC’s coaching team for several years, contributing to both grassroots and development programs. His high soccer IQ and specialized goalkeeping knowledge make him an outstanding mentor for young players.
Program Details
Dates:
September 19, 26
October 3, 10, 17, 24
November 7, 14, 21, 28
December 5, 12
Total: 12 sessions
Times:
• 5:30 – 6:30 PM (U9–U13)
• 6:30 – 7:30 PM (U14–U18)
Location: Hjorth Road Turf #2
Cost: $125.00 (No access code required to register)
Program Focus
The Goalkeeper Academy provides professional-level, position-specific training with a focus on:
-Handling, diving, and reaction saves
-Footwork and positioning
-Decision-making and distribution
-Confidence and communication during play
Program Inquiries
For any questions about the Goalkeeper Academy, please contact:
📧 Ryan Donald, Director of Player Development – assistant.td@guildfordac.com
Ready to join the Goalkeeper Academy? Click below to register and reserve your spot.