Football Development Policy

Club principles on football development

1. More qualified coaches

We intend to get as many qualified coaches as possible. The target will be to have at least one coach per team qualified at to FA Level 1 standard. Herts FA and WFC courses will be sent to all coaches to distribute them amongst their teams’ parents. All courses will be paid for by the club.

2. Not to turn players away

It has always been and should continue to be a club policy not to turn anyone away from Cassiobury Rangers because of their lack of ability.

3. Not to stream kids too early

We advise not to stream kids before they reach the under  9 age group. Up until then, teams should be of mixed abilities and all players should share equal time on the pitch in matches. 

4. Positional play

Everyone should be encouraged to play in different positions to develop all their skills, particularly younger age groups. Initially, kids will learn faster by running all over the pitch than if they are told to play in ‘strict’ positions.

5. Small sided matches

Kids will learn and develop their skills much quicker and with more confidence when they have more touches on the ball. Therefore, we advise all teams to play 7 a-side football for as long as possible and at least until they reach the under 11 age group. Even after that, we should encourage small sided football, where possible.

6. Small sided training

Training should always be geared to small sided football up to under 11. For the reasons above, it is far better to practice in smaller groups, especially in the games at the end
of training.

7. Parents’ shouting

We all get a bit carried away from time to time, but only the team coaches or their appointed helpers should be shouting instructions to their players. Shouts of encouragement are always welcome, but a child will get frustrated and confused if he or she is shouted at from all angles to do this and to do that.

8. Watford Friendly League

The WFL is the league that all our youth teams should play in. It is by far the best league for many reasons; it is well organised, well funded and above all well structured to provide fun, competitive football at all levels. Under 7s will start in the West Herts League as there is not a WFL equivalent.

9. Registration rules

It is essential for all teams to abide by the registration rules of whichever league they play in. We expect all our players to be properly registered with Cassiobury Rangers and with the relevant leagues.

10. Championing the spirit of football

The most important point is that we all do our best to provide a safe, friendly, successful and fun environment for everyone to enjoy their football.

David Shann

Cassiobury Rangers football development officer