selEction
Whether starting or on the bench, coaches intend to play every player at some time during each game they’re selected for
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U6: Encouraging early development
The club offers a taster approach for children in the Academy ages to try the game with no pressure. The club is aware that some children are late-developers and keenness to learn and play is an appropriate younger-age attribute that should be encouraged. Where possible we will offer opportunities at all ages (subject to upholding a safe environment to conduct sessions in).
Squad selection
We sometimes need to manage a waiting list, especially for younger age groups, due to limits on team numbers and FA Safeguarding coach-to-child ratios, which vary by age.
To offer more opportunities for children, we aim to have enough coaches for each age group. This often means asking parents to volunteer. More volunteers mean more spaces and better experiences for our young players.
Team selection
When forming U7 squads, player selection should consider more than just ability. Factors like willingness to learn, behavior, respect, commitment, friendship groups, and availability should take priority.
The club recommends team sizes to ensure fair opportunities for all players, within the FA’s maximum squad limits, as outlined in our Ethos.
Playing time
Coaches aim to give all players time on the pitch, whether starting or on the bench. For development age groups (up to U10s), we strive to ensure playing time is shared equally across the season, with some exceptions like dedicated goalkeepers, availability, or long-term injuries.
U7-U10: Focusing on growth and fairness
At Thurlby Tigers, team selection for U7s-U10s focuses on player development, fairness, and enjoyment. Teams are organised considering friendships, schools, and ability, ensuring players grow at their own pace alongside peers. Our aim is to provide equal opportunities in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Squad selection
The club understands that children are aware of differing abilities from an early age. While equal playing time isn’t always expected at all age groups, coaches aim to provide fair opportunities based on ability, confidence, and fitness. A rotational approach may be used to ensure appropriate playing time across the season, as outlined in our Ethos.
Team selection
Our coaches will avoid bringing substitutes simply to appear to have a “full bench” or to cover for unreliable players.
Unreliable players will be carefully considered for selection, with discussions held with parents if needed. For squads exceeding recommended sizes, rotational approaches can help ensure fair opportunities.
Playing time
Coaches aim to give every player time on the pitch, whether starting or on the bench. For development age groups (up to U10s), playing time is shared equally across the season, with exceptions for dedicated goalkeepers, availability, or long-term injuries.
Captaincy selection
The club values captaincy as a way to build leadership, communication, and respect while recognising it as meaningful to children.
Up to U11s, captaincy is rotated within the squad to reward commitment, behaviour, and core skills, supporting every player’s development.
Training players
Players develop at different rates, and the club encourages including training players (non-registered players) in tournaments or friendly games when possible. This helps coaches assess players in real game situations.
At younger ages, coaches are expected to welcome training squad players to support squad longevity. To ensure effective sessions, the club has set a maximum number of players per session for a balanced and productive experience.
Large age groups
When an age group has a large number of players, coaches may form two or more teams. For development ages (U7-U10), teams can be organised based on factors like friendships, schools, or ability.
This approach ensures all players have fair opportunities to compete in matches and develop at their own pace alongside peers with similar needs.
U11-U18: Balancing competition and development
From U11s onwards, coaches may start selecting teams with a more competitive focus, as outlined in the club’s game time approach. By this age, players often understand their abilities compared to others. Coaches will aim to balance competition for places with each player’s development needs and the long-term sustainability of the squad, ensuring fairness and growth for all.
Captaincy selection
From U11s and in 9v9 games, the club supports coaches selecting a captain who demonstrates core skills like leadership and aligns with the club’s values. At this stage, coaches may nominate a “club captain” to serve for an extended period or the full season.
Playing time
As players transition into a more competitive environment, team selection may include performance-based decisions and squad rotation when numbers exceed recommended sizes. However, all players selected for match day will always receive some game time.
Training players
From U11 onwards, coaches are not required to host training squad players (non-registered players). However, they may choose to do so to support squad sustainability and assess potential players.
Player re-registration policy
Players are given the opportunity to re-register annually, ahead of non-registered players, as a default. In some cases, discussions may be needed with the player and parents about remaining as a training squad player, leaving the club, or other options. These discussions are guided by Welfare and supported by evidence from club coaches, if necessary. Reasons for review may include poor adherence to respect codes, low attendance or commitment, significant ability gaps, exceeding recommended squad sizes, or concerns about safety and welfare.
What others say
We’re thrilled to share the amazing reviews from our TTFC community! From players and parents to supporters and volunteers, everyone has something special to say about the passion and positive environment at our club. Discover why so many people love being part of our football family…
What we believe in…
Competition
We value effort over winning.Coaching
Training is fun and age appropriate.Playing
The player is at the heart of all we do.
