Youth

(U12-U16)

The Youth space covers the ages of 12-16 and is split into two different pathways - Academy and Community.

We have a number of qualified and experienced coaches who will be working in the youth space for the 2027 season, through the age grades. For Skill Development we offer two different avenues to accelerate football learning. Check out the Pathways below!

01

Academy Pathway

The goal of the Academy Pathway is to provide teams and a structure for players that:

Desire to play at the highest possible competitive level.
Have the necessary attitude and ability to meet the challenge points presented in order for this to be the best development space for them.
Are able to commit to training multiple times per week in and out of trainings.
Are happy to travel across the federation to play (Bay of Plenty and Waikato).

Coaches must have a certain level of accreditation to train them and use an aligned, periodised program across all teams.

In 2027 we will have teams in the following leagues:

Western BOP U12 (born 2015) – 9 aside
Y League U13 (born 2014) – 9 aside
Y League U14 (born 2013) – 11 aside
Y league U16 (born 2011/2012) – 11 aside

02

Community Pathway

The goal of the Community Pathway is to provide teams and a structure for players that:

Want to play locally or within the Bay of Plenty.
Would prefer to play in a less competitive environment.
Will find the challenge points in this pathway the best place to develop this year.

As a club our focus is to provide opportunities for players in this space to develop, enjoy the sport, and feel comfortable and welcome no matter their level or any other factors. We have a goal to grow this space and make it an amazing space to be a part of.

Skills Development

03

We have 2 avenues for Skill Development:

For our teams playing across the WaiBOP Federation in our Y leagues. The teams are selected through trials in February and attend 2-3 practices per week.
This is a holistic programme that uses best practices to work on the technical, tactical, mental and social areas of each player.
- Sessions focus on how to apply our Lakes FC principles to game situations, improving skill development and game understanding.
- One individual/position specific skills and small sided games session per week.
- A focus on Lakes FC values and creating a well-rounded person.
- Skilled coaches and professional coach support
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For our younger players not yet old enough to play in the Y leagues or any player that wants to grow their individual skills.
These sessions run once a week, teaching Lakes FC principles, decision making, and creativity alongside the core skills needed to play, in a fun learning environment with accredited coaches.
Sessions for 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th graders and a GIRLS ONLY Session too!