About US

Our Mission

At Ignite Soccer Institute, our mission is to ignite the full potential of youth soccer players in Peterborough and the surrounding areas through elite technical training, holistic development, and a passion-driven approach to the game. We are committed to developing confident, creative, and resilient players by blending proven methodology with innovation—empowering youth to excel both on and off the field.

Our vision

Our vision is to become a nationally recognized leader in youth soccer development—where excellence, character, and creativity are cultivated through every session. Ignite Soccer Institute strives to inspire the next generation of athletes to reach their highest potential, impact their communities, and pursue the game with integrity, passion, and purpose.

who we are

Ignite Soccer Institute is a faith based premier training resource for individual athletes and club teams seeking high-level, academy-style development. We do not operate teams, participate in leagues, or enter tournaments. Instead, we focus solely on enhancing players and coaches so they can thrive within their home club environments. 

Respected by parents, coaches, and clubs alike, Ignite is frequently trusted to elevate player development and deliver coach education, leaving a lasting legacy in every club we support.

We offer a professional, high-performance environment for elite players aiming to progress towards OPDL, collegiate and university competition, provincial and national teams, and professional clubs in Canada and abroad.

At Ignite Soccer Institute, we are committed to attracting, developing, and retaining top-tier coaching talent. Our coaches lead with technical expertise, passion, and a commitment to continuous education. Through our programs, athletes grow physically, technically, and mentally—becoming well-rounded players who deepen their understanding and love of the game across Canada.

Andrew Kernohan – Founder & Technical Director

Andrew Kernohan brings a lifelong passion for player development and elite-level training to Ignite Soccer Institute. As a youth player, Andrew competed with the prestigious Woodbridge Strikers in the Ontario Youth Soccer League (OYSL) and was selected to represent Team Ontario, showcasing his talent at the provincial level.

He continued his playing career with Fleming College and Peterborough City, gaining valuable experience both on and off the field. Transitioning into coaching, Andrew has earned several top-level certifications, including:

  • Canada Soccer National C Diploma

  • Mexico High-Performance Coaching Certificate (Club Calor)

  • Coerver Coaching Youth Diploma 1 & 2

Driven by a commitment to technical excellence and holistic player growth, Andrew founded Ignite Soccer Institute to serve as a high-performance training resource for players and coaches across Ontario. His coaching philosophy emphasizes ball mastery, physical conditioning, and mental resilience—empowering athletes to elevate their game while enhancing their contributions to their home clubs.

Salih Miftari – Lead Technical Trainer

Salih Miftari is a highly skilled and experienced technical specialist who brings a wealth of playing and training expertise to Ignite Soccer Institute. As a youth player, Salih competed with Cavan FC in the Ontario Youth Soccer League (OYSL), where he led his team to multiple championship victories and earned recognition for his advanced technical ability.

Following a standout youth career, Salih progressed to the professional level, competing in Europe with KF Flamurtari, where he refined his understanding of the game and trained at a world-class standard.

As Ignite’s Lead Technical Trainer, Salih is known for his precision, creativity, and ability to break down complex techniques into simple, repeatable movements. His sessions challenge athletes to push beyond their limits while developing confidence, control, and composure on the ball. Salih’s passion for the game and commitment to player development make him an invaluable asset to the Ignite coaching team.

Paco Valdivia-Camp – Program Advisor & Technical Trainer
Paco Valdivia-Camp brings world-class experience and leadership to Ignite Soccer Institute as a seasoned professional player and elite-level coach. A former professional footballer and team captain for a top club in Guadalajara, Mexico, Paco’s playing career was defined by his tactical intelligence, composure under pressure, and natural leadership on and off the field.

Paco holds a prestigious Pro-A Coaching License from the Federación Mexicana de Fútbol Asociación, and he currently serves as the Coaching Director at Club Calor—a professional club in Mexico known for its high standards of youth development.

In addition to his coaching credentials, Paco completed the Professional Master in Football program through FC Barcelona, further deepening his understanding of modern training methodology, game analysis, and player development.

At Ignite, Paco brings international perspective, technical excellence, and a structured approach to each session. His passion for the game and deep commitment to developing both players and coaches make him an exceptional asset to the Institute.

Peter Tolman-Camp – Program Developer & Technical Trainer
Peter Tolman is a dedicated soccer development professional whose journey in the game began in Mexico. Born and raised in Mexico, Peter played professionally for Club Calor in the 2nd division, gaining valuable insights into high-level competition and technical excellence from a young age.

He holds a prestigious Pro-A Coaching License from the Federación Mexicana de Fútbol Asociación and currently serves as the Head of the Youth Academy at Club Calor, where he is responsible for nurturing and developing emerging talent.

At Ignite Soccer Institute, Peter leverages his professional playing experience and advanced coaching credentials to design and implement innovative training programs. His commitment to technical mastery and player development enhances every session, contributing to the holistic growth of both players and coaches within our community.