The last fifteen months have seen many events of discussion and dialogue at coaching meetings, League and County FA meetings and most importantly, with children, to culminate in the following proposals.
There is a full report available for the complete
Youth Development Review and the 25 recommendations that have been put forward but this consultation process will focus on the key matters around whole game young player development and three vital areas of improvement.
The recommendations have been made on one determining factor; if this is better for the child that plays the game then it has to be considered. Many adult values are very different from children’s views and values and it is the latter that should drive our young player development system, not the former.
It is wholly recognised that the financial situation of the country means The Football Association have to be realistic about what we are proposing, yet it also needs to be aspirational.
If there are hurdles and challenges to be overcome then the football family needs to work together to achieve these, ensuring that we create the best possible opportunity and environment for young people to play, enjoy and learn the game of football.
These ‘Your Kids, Your Say’ events, with 16 taking place around the country, will be the opportunity for grassroots volunteers to come and hear the proposals being put forward and then discuss in-depth the implications of these. There will be the opportunity to ask questions of key Football Association staff on the night and seek help and advice on overcoming some local challenges you might have.
Children’s football in England needs to be based on common sense, be exciting and innovative and be world-leading. We have a fantastic opportunity to be at the forefront of change and whilst not forgetting the excellent work that the army of volunteers and parents do for children across the country, ensure that we all pull together in the same direction.
Football is a game of subjective opinions and it’s the one industry that everyone is an expert. You may disagree with some of the discussions but please input in a constructive manner so we can understand your views.
This is the time to have your positive input to try and develop the game, taking it into a new era and moving it forward for young people, as their lives move forward at an unprecedented pace not experienced before. This is the time to evolve and embrace development and discuss some of the matters being raised.
Some questions to consider before the night:
What should youth football look like in five years time?
What game will the child born this week want to play in ten years time? Key discussion matters on the night:
Formats of the game
Child-centred approaches to competition
Addressing relative age effect
Developments to Mini Soccer If you cannot make one of the Roadshow events please feel free to send in your thoughts and feedback to yourkidsyoursay@thefa.com and all of these emails will be read by FA staff. We cannot guarantee replying to all of these but please be assured they will be discussed.
