Gribbon’s sessions reportedly begin with simple movement games, including running through cones, before a ball is introduced. The emphasis is on keeping children active and engaged rather than leaving them waiting in lines.
That approach reflects a widely accepted principle in youth football: enjoyment comes before technical perfection. At this age, a player’s first success may simply be chasing the ball, trying a new movement or feeling comfortable on the field.
The report says Gribbon watches for small developments, such as children beginning to use the side of the foot instead of relying on their toes. Those details can mark the start of a much longer football journey.
Gribbon has reportedly built several years of coaching experience while continuing to play herself. She has also completed coaching courses at the Canadore dome, gaining preparation in working with children and organising effective sessions.
Coaching toddlers demands patience, energy and flexibility. A carefully planned exercise may quickly become a game of running, laughing and chasing the ball - and knowing when to embrace that is part of the role.
Gribbon also believes football can offer children more than weekly exercise. It can create friendships, confidence and a welcome break from school routines, while giving boys and girls a shared place to belong.
Her message to parents is direct: “I would say just do it, and commit. It is not too much with the youth program; they start with once a week, they'll get better, and it is worth it in the end.”
The next step will be seeing how many of these first sessions grow into lasting football connections - and whether Gribbon becomes one of the local coaches helping shape them.