An FA review under the direction of Sir Trevor Brooking recommended the integration of all football in an effort to introduce a logical player development and coach education pathway for all.
Given the diversity of participation in football, The FA has decided to adopt an 8 stage model of Long Term Player Development (LTPD) as shown here. At BYFC we focus in on stages 1 and 2 only:
This example describes an age appropriate development pathway over time. The recommendations for the younger age groups being aligned to the schools key stages wherever possible;
- Stages 1-2: 5 to 11 year old primary school ages (small sided games played)
- Stages 3-4: 11 to 16 year old secondary school ages (11 v 11 games played)
- Fundamentals 5 to 8 years old Ages may overlap ± (This includes children in Reception year in school)
- Enjoying practice 8 to 11 years old
The LTPD programme has a relationship with the 4 Corner development model, which includes
| Technical | Technique development – mastering the ball |
| Psychological | Developing multiple life skills such as Communication, Teamwork, dealing with conflict and Learning from mistakes |
| Physical | Physical development – athletic movement. |
| Social | Creating the right environment, encouraging good behaviours, developing respect and building sustainable relationships |
Through LTPD Players will be able to combine and effectively execute the correct technique, movement and decision on demand therefore transferring these components effectively into match-play.
