Training arrangements

The new season starts back in August.  We will update the training arrangements once they become available.

Don't forget - Rattle the tin!

There is £2 sub payable every time your child attends a match or a training session. Can you ensure that you/your child proactively gives this to the coach. This is really appreciated as the coaches often forget to ask as they are distracted with trying to organise the team!

The £2 subs contribute to pitch hire, cost of equipment, teamer, kits, coach
training and the occasional treat for the kids.

Attendance at fixtures

Please note that those selected for matches will receive notification through Teamer.  It is very important to respond PROMPTLY to teamer emails so that the coaches know whether your child is available for a fixture.  This allows them time to invite another child if your child can't make it.  

Lifts to fixtures can be arranged from the Youth Club if required - please contact the coach or Danny on 07834360612.  If you are going directly to the ground please indicate on teamer and ensure that you are there 30 mins before kick off for warm up.

Checklist for matches:
  • NAVY socks
  • NAVY Rosario shorts
  • Shinpads
  • Water
  • Suncream / waterproofs
  • £2 subs (please give to the coach)

Why mini-soccer?

The value of the Small-Sided Games programme is to provide children (6-11 years old) with an opportunity to showcase their newly acquired skills and creativity. The small-sided games model is an effective method for developing ball skills and game awareness because it increases opportunities for players to have contact with the ball and to both attack and defend without the tactical regimentation that can occur in 11 v 11 football.

Competition is a central element in a player’s development. However a competitive environment should not be a result-orientated environment. A competitive environment at this level should encourage decisions from players and coach alike that focus on performance rather than outcome (favouring ball skills and inventiveness).

Remember none of these children are professional football players. As such, they are out there because they love the competition and the game of football. Let them have fun and let the coaches do their jobs.

We would be grateful if all parents/ guardians do not coach from the sidelines and please view games from the opposite side of the pitch from the coaches and inside the designated spectator area.

Sports drinks and energy drinks

We strongly advise that our players drink water only at fixtures and training - fizzy/energy drinks should be avoided.

There is a very good reason for this. We hope it never happens but if your child is injured and requires treatment (ie anesthetic) the sugar from the energy drinks lasts longer in their system, delaying when the treatment can take place. This has happened to a child in the Castlereagh programme, who had to wait 5 hours before they could be treated.

Nut allergies

There are a number kids at various age groups within the club who have nut allergies.  When attending tournaments or other events which require your child to bring a packed lunch, we would appreciate if you do not include items which may contain nuts.

Shinpads

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All players MUST wear shinpads at training and fixtures!  No exceptions.