THE DIRECTION in football is not too different from the nation’s education road map. We all know that in education we start off in kindergarten then prep and then primary followed by secondary school then on to tertiary education. In football we have the grassroots leading onto Junior, youth and senior football followed by State and National selection and/or professional clubs.
Players need to be grouped in such a manner that they are always challenged at training and in games as they go through the phases of the “Road Map” Players need to develop at their own pace in stress free environments. Playing for club teams players that show obvious talent will be identified and earmarked for representative teams. Similar to school graded classes.
One of the main problems I observe at many clubs is that in an effort not to upset players who do not get selected in elite teams, there are those who want to “Create” more than one elite team in each age group.
There can only be ONE team made up of the best players. Sure you can have a “B” team etc, but let’s not kid ourselves there will always be “The Best Team” and those that do not make it just have to deal with it.
This is no different to those who do not get the necessary marks in secondary school to go to university. That’s life!
The next stage is when players are selected to represent the State and even the nation or are offered professional contracts with clubs. Not every player that plays the game will reach this stage so let’s start toughening kids up and teach them that being successful takes hard work, application and dedication.
All of the above of course is a broad view of things. If we are genuinely seeking the very best players to represent the nation at World Cup Tournaments we must be spreading our net far and wide to ensure that it is ALL about talent not cost. Clubs need assistance from government and sponsors otherwise costs will spiral and players simply will not afford the cost of playing.
The fact is that players with ambition will always want to go to where the best coaches and best facilities are and where they can test themselves playing in the best competitions. As a result clubs are burdened with the cost and responsibility of continually improving facilities and maintaining grounds.
If football is to fulfill its obvious potential and continue to represent the Country in World competitions (Matilda’s/Socceroos) clubs must gain community and government support at local, State and Federal levels. Relying solely on sponsors for financial support is just not going to cut it. Community football clubs support the highest participation rates of any sport in the Country and deserve govt financial support.
