youth development
Youth Development is a division recently established under the Technical Dept.
“The focus is for the development of players at an early age, provide adequate information and expertise to develop the right skills and understand training processes, discipline and develop the right attitude at an early age”.
Youth development in football is crucial for nurturing young talent and fostering their growth both as individuals and as players. They are the future players, and it is our responsibility to up-bring them and their talent to the professional spectrum of the football sports industry.
The Division has put forward some key aspects to implement youth development program and designing playing strategies:
- Holistic Development.
- Age-Appropriate Training
- Long-Term Player Development:
- Qualified Coaching Staff
- Player-Centric Approach
- Skill Acquisition
- Tactical Understanding
- Game Realism
- Physical Development
- Player Monitoring and Evaluation
- Sportsmanship and Character Building
- Parent and Community Involvement
Youth development in football is a continuous process that requires dedication, patience, and a player-centric approach. By implementing a comprehensive program and strategic playing strategies, we can help young players reach their full potential and instill a lifelong love for the game
The PNGFA Technical Department conducted its first Football Development Pathway Awareness workshop for Grassroots and Youth Programs in Lae at the beginning of August 2024 focusing mainly on ages 6-14 for Grassroots in Primary Schools and 15-19 age groups in Secondary schools.
Development
The focus is for the development of players at an early age, provide adequate information and expertise to develop the right skills and understand training processes, discipline and develop the right attitude at an early age.
Teachers from the nearby Schools came to attend this awareness and were very excited to learn and work to support football in their respective communities. This awareness is a step taken by PNGFA to initiate partnership with schools to run competitions to identify pool of talents in certain age groups.
Team Leader Mathias Apo said the outcome of the program was very positive and encouraging. The awareness program will continue to other Provinces throughout the Country.