At Lennox Head Football Club each age group team is seen as a progressive step in the development of each player. Every coach should concentrate on the specific aims and objectives below depending on the age group being coached.

Under 6 – Under 7

Enjoyment & Discovery: For these age groups FUN should be the main focus, allowing the players to learn and develop from fun games. the role of the coach is more that of a fun game facilitator rather than a coach.

Under 8 – Under 9

Enjoyment & Discovery: these age groups form the foundation stages of a players development. At this stage attention should be focussed on developing football technique. he basics of ball mastery, passing, receiving, ball striking and dribbling 1v1 are the main components at this age. tactics should play a very minor role although should start to be introduced towards the end of the Under 9 season.

Under 10 – Under 11

Technical & Skill Awareness: The technical programme concentrates on recovering, retaining and recycling the ball. The skill awareness programme is a continuation of ball mastery, ball striking, passing, receiving and 1v1′s.

It is at this stage that the tactical understanding should be introduced. It is important players start to understand the shape in which they should play; the concept of creating and using space, and defending individually and as a team. this is an important component as players prepare for the transition from 9v9 to 11v11 and competitive football.

Under 12 – Under 14

Technical & Skill Awareness: At this stage coaching should concentrate on developing decision making skills in game related situations. Although technique work still plays an iportant role during trianing it is important to emphasise the tactical awareness for the preferred formation as well.

Under 15 – under 16

Understanding & Decision Making: At this stage coaches should start to prepare players for their next move into senior football. the emphasis is on decision making, game management and making use of or retaining possession.