YOUTH TEAMS
More Than Football
Youth Teams (Under 11-18 Boys and Girls)
Youth Development Stage
During this stage, teams move to playing 9-a-side games and the focus is on developing proficiency in key game phases: In Possession, Transition, and Out of Possession. Coaches will emphasise skill development, encouraging players to be creative under pressure, understand ball recovery strategies, and manage tempo effectively.
Players naturally start to adopt positions that suit their playing styles, learning the importance of teamwork over individual play. As competition increases, balancing player development with the desire to win becomes crucial.
When teams reach the Under 13 level they transition to 11-a-side games, which entail more fitness and commitment, often resulting in increased training frequency. Players may experience growth spurts, leading to temporary clumsiness and reduced technical ability. Hormonal changes can also impact concentration and spatial awareness, but these challenges are typically short-lived.
