MINI FOOTBALL

MINI FOOTBALL information

All you need to know about TAKARO AFC's Mini Football programme

When do we train/play?

Most older Junior teams train mid-week.  Contact coaches to confirm the day/time for specific teams.

Saturday mornings from 8:45am-10:15am – usually on fields at Monrad Park (Highbury Avenue).

The programme on a typical Saturday is:

  • 8:45am – 9:10am – Begin pre-match activities
  • 9:15am – 10:00am – Small-sided game followed by awards and notices

Who trains the kids?

Volunteer (eg. parents, grandparents, older siblings) coaches train the kids under the responsibility of our Junior Club Captain.  Parents should expect to assist with coaching at some stage throughout the season (managing subs, keeping score, picking Player of the Day, running pre-match activities, etc.).

A coaching evening will be held to up-skill all Junior coaches.

How does it work?

The coach is responsible for the overall management and coaching of Mini Football teams.  With assistance of parents, they are responsible for running the pre-match activities.

Each coach will be supplied with the pre-match training exercises to develop players’ skills.  This will be 1-2 drills each week followed by the team’s match against another team.

Parents and supporters are encouraged to support the players during these exercises in a positive manner.

Why are we doing this?

All clubs affiliated to NZF are expected to adopt this (and other) programmes aimed at developing the best possible football players, as well as developing higher participation in the sport.  Takaro AFC is committed to following this programme (along with the other junior football clubs in the Manawatu).

How to be an effective Coach

Many Mini Football players are likely to be participating in organised football for the very first time, while others may have been through the First Kicks and/or Fun Football programmes.  Players need to enjoy the experience if they are to fall in love with the game.  For coaches, this means having a good understanding of the needs of these young players and how best to develop them.

Want to learn more?

NZ Football’s website – www.nzfootball.co.nz

MINI FOOTBALL is a New Zealand Football mandated programme that is part of the evolution of football in New Zealand.  It is a programme that is part of the ‘Whole of Football Plan’ (WOFP) specific to 9 and 12 year olds.

The focus of Mini Football is General Movement (10%), Football Coordination (40%), Football Technique (10%), and Small-Sided Games (40%).  The aim is to continue the player development progression through a range of pre-prepared activities.

NZ Football’s WOFP encompasses the entire junior and senior spectrum of football in New Zealand.

Upcoming Games

Game Times