Player Pathway Guidelines

Academy Level
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This is starting point where new players are encouraged to learn, grow, develop and express themselves.  Drogheda Town have developed an academy that is encouraging, safe, fun, relaxing and focused on early development.  Key elements:
  • Fun and Enjoyment:
    • Focus on the joy of playing football to instil a love for the game.
    • Use games and playful drills.
  • Basic Motor Skills:
    • Develop coordination, balance, and basic motor skills through varied activities.
  • Introduction to Soccer Skills:
    • Basic dribbling, passing, and shooting techniques.
    • Encourage use of both feet.
  • Small-Sided Games:
    • 3v3 or 4v4 games to maximize touches on the ball and involvement.
  • Focus on understanding simple rules and sportsmanship.
  • Social Skills:
    • Promote teamwork, sharing, and communication among peers.

Assessments will be encouraged, and feedback offered to players and parents.
  
Non-Competitive (U8, U9) – 5v5

At these ages the aim of the Club is to develop player skills in a non-competitive environment.  A step up from the academy, coaching support focuses on the following: 
  • Skill Development:
    • More focus on advanced dribbling, passing, receiving, and shooting.
    • Introduction to ball control exercises.
  • Basic Tactical Understanding:
    • Introduction to positioning, spacing, and basic game strategy.
    • Small-sided games can be increased to highlight tactical concepts.
  • Physical Development:
    • Introduction to agility, speed, and flexibility.
  • Mental and Emotional Growth:
    • Develop early level of focus, concentration, and resilience.
    • Encourage a positive attitude and fair play.
  • Competitive Play:
    • Participation in local friendlies and blitzes.
    • Introduction to winning and losing graciously.

To maximise player development and to minimise changes to teams in future years when teams are graded, players are assessed and put into teams where the skill levels of the players are similar. The Club will endeavour to keep players in teams where friendships have been established however this cannot be guaranteed as it is dependent upon the number of players registered and teams.

 
Transitional Non-Competitive (U10, U11) 7v7

At this age, the Club will prepare the players for competitive football. Although still non-competitive, teams are towards the end of their initial assessment and the club will work with the leagues to place these teams into divisions best suited to their skill level.  Team/squad sizes increase, and coaches aim to advance players on the following:

  • Skill Development:
    • Advanced development of touch, turns and technique
    • Players encouraged to express themselves. Don’t worry about making mistakes.
  • More advanced Tactical Understanding:
    • Introduction to phases of play and set plays
    • Retreat line
    • Advance Training including match situations, example overloads of 2v1, 3v2 etc.
  • Physical Development:
    • Maintain focus on agility, speed, and flexibility.
    • Age-appropriate fitness exercises and injury prevention.
  • Mental and Emotional Growth:
    • Develop focus, concentration, and resilience.
    • Encourage a positive attitude and fair play.
  • Competitive Play:
    • Participation in local leagues and tournaments.

Under-12 (U12) 9v9 & Under-13 (U13) to Under-15 (U15) 11v11 Club grading introduced at U12 level

The grading of junior players is seen as an important step in their development as footballers and their ability to enjoy the game especially at a more competitive level.

Key Elements of Focus:
  1. Technical Proficiency:
    • Refinement of all technical skills under pressure.
    • Focus on first touch, quick decision-making, and advanced ball control.
  2. Tactical Awareness:
    • Understanding different formations and roles within the team.
    • Develop strategic thinking and situational play.
  3. Physical Conditioning:
    • Strength, endurance, and speed training specific to soccer.
    • Emphasize injury prevention and recovery techniques.
  4. Mental Toughness:
    • Develop mental resilience, confidence, and the ability to handle pressure.
    • Goal setting and visualization techniques.
  5. Competitive Experience:
    • Higher level of competitive play, including regional and state tournaments.
    • Introduction to scouting and pathways to higher levels of play.
 
 
Under-16 (U16) to Under-18 (U18) 11v11
Pushing the squads more towards senior football, in a much more competitive environment, the club aim to prepare players to reach senior level.

Key Elements of Focus:
  1. Advanced Technical Skills:
    • Mastery of technical skills with emphasis on execution at high speed.
    • Individual skill development tailored to specific positions.
  2. Complex Tactical Understanding:
    • In-depth study of tactics, team dynamics, and opponent analysis.
    • Ability to adapt to different styles of play and formations.
  3. Peak Physical Fitness:
    • Intense conditioning programs focusing on strength, agility, and endurance.
    • Professional-level fitness and nutrition plans.
  4. Professional Mental Preparation:
    • Advanced mental training, including focus, leadership, and sports psychology.
    • Handling stress, maintaining motivation, and balancing academics and sports.
  5. Elite Competitive Play:
    • Participation in national-level tournaments and showcases.
    • Exposure to LOI scouts and professional opportunities.
    • Understanding of the recruitment process and pathways to professional or collegiate soccer.