plymouth argyle youth academy -...

Plymouth Argyle Youth Academy Parents and Players Handbook

Pride

Passion

Determination

Desire

Concentration

Positive attitude

Team Work

Willingness to learn

Attitude

Application

Learning from mistakes

Focused

Communication

Feedback

Our Vision

‘To provide an environment where the very

best young players in the South West of

England are guided and challenged by

expert coaches to play an active role in developing their football ability.’

Our Playing Philosophy

In Possession: “To create players with the technical ability and tactical understanding to play through the thirds with purposeful possession. They will have the freedom to use problem solving skills to find conventional and novel ways of creating goal-scoring opportunities.” Out of Possession: “To produce players who can proactively affect the opposition in possession through individual body positioning and team shape. They will exploit opportunities to regain possession with focussed and thoughtful tenacity/desire and determination.”

Academy Playing Style (11v11) We use 4-3-3 and 4-4-2 as the basis for our system of play, aiming for purposeful possession played through the thirds of the field. At relevant times during the season, these formations may be adapted to suit the topic being worked on, with players being challenged to find solutions themselves. From the back: defenders who are comfortable playing around and through, with exemplary passing, receiving and heading skills. Through midfield: players who can create space, rotate, combine and be clever, receive, turn & dribble 1v1. Into forwards: who can create space, receive and protect, turn, dribble, make chances and take them. All players understanding roles and responsibilities on, off and around the ball.

Football Ethos

Our aim is for each academy graduate to be: • Technically excellent • Mentally strong • Athletic • A confident individual • An independent thinker • Intelligent footballer • Easy to coach • Always eager to learn

“A well rounded individual and good citizen.”

Players Training Responsibilities

Every academy player will be required to adhere to high standards. In particular, maximum effort and enthusiasm is expected at every training session and match. Creating players who are a credit to us as people and who apply themselves professionally on and off the field with an attitude to always improve.

“Training drives development, matches provide experience.”

Our Coaching Philosophy:

To create a positive, challenging and enjoyable learning environment that provides players with the freedom to express and develop as footballers and as people. Opportunities for game-based learning will be maximised with a focus on competitive and thoughtfully designed practices, while both players and coaches will be encouraged to reflect on training and games with the aid of video analysis and activity journals.’

Board of Directors

Academy Manager

Designated Head of Education

Sports Science & Medicine Co-

ordinator

Lead Sports Scientist

Match Analysis

Strength and Conditioning

Ivybridge Strength and Conditioning

Programme

Marjons Sports Science Link

Sports Psychologist

Senior Physiotherapist

Physiotherapist

COE U9-U16

Medical Provision

Academy Doctor

Head of Recruitment

Recruitment Officer

Local Plymouth/Devon

Scouts:

Head of Coaching

Foundation Phase

Lead Coach

5-11

Coaches U8-U11:

U8's: Head Coach

Assistant Coach

U9's: Head Coach

Assistant Coach

U10's: Head Coach

Assistant Coach

U11's Head Coach

Assistant Coach

Development Centres

Youth Development Lead

Coach

12-16

Coaches U12-U16:

U12's: Head Coach Assistant Coach

U13's: Head Coach

Assistant Coach

U14's Head Coach

Assistant Coach

U15's: Head Coach

Assistant Coach

U16's: Head Coach

Assistant Coach

Professional Development Lead

Coach 17-21

Professional Development

Coach

Coaches U16-U21

Professional Development

Phase Goalkeeping

Coach

U9-U21

Position Specific Coaches

Academy Secretary

Academy Staff Structure

Sports Science Programme

Alongside monitoring players’ progress in terms of abilities and application of game understanding, we will also monitor their physical development. This will allow us to tailor the type and amount of training to match the needs of each individual player as their physical stature and capabilities change.

This will involve the regular collection of anthropometric data such as height, weight and body composition. We will also collect data on physical performance three times a year, this will include sprint speed, acceleration, agility, and vertical jump height.

Foundation Phase U5-U11

We believe that this phase is crucial in acquiring the skills that will support players’ development throughout their time with us. From age 5 to 8 our focus will be on individual ball mastery, before the introduction of basic tactical concepts from 9 to 11. We endeavour to create an enjoyable environment where players are challenged to express themselves and solve problems, and mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities.

Foundation Phase U5-U11 – FUNdamentals

Focus: Outcomes:

Fundamentals – ABC’s Movement patterns

Master the ball Technically efficient

Deliberate play Game understanding

Creativity Expressive players

Problem solving Creative thinkers Playing in a variety Experience and positions appreciation of different positions Enjoyable & fun Play without fear

Coaching Syllabus U5-U8

Dribbling

Protecting the ball

Turning

6 Week Rotational Programme: Coaching topics may be revisited if necessary


Passing & Receiving

Dribbling & Running with the

ball

Protecting the ball & Turning

Defending

Attacking

Movement


Session Routine U5-U11

Training sessions will contain the following elements:

• Specific technique practices (group/individual)

• Game related practices

• Unopposed/opposed practices

• Small-sided games

• Modified games

Youth Development Phase U12-U16

Within this phase players will utilise their technical excellence to explore tactical concepts in greater depth as they move from playing 9v9 to 11v11. Players will be expected to play an active part in their learning, working through challenges and problems set by coaches, and reflecting on match and training experiences with the support of video analysis.

Youth Development Phase U12-U16 – Training to Train

Focus: Outcomes: Pitch size transition 9v9 to 11v11 Positional understanding Spatial awareness & principles of play Transitions Anticipate & react Challenging individuals Decision-making Strength and conditioning Athletic players Tactical understanding Playing against different formations


Passing & Receiving

Running with the

ball & dribbling

Transitions

Principles of Defending

Principles of Attacking

Movement


Session Routine U12 - U16

Game-related practices will be used wherever possible to facilitate transfer of knowledge and skills. More position-specific work with defenders, midfielders and strikers will be included towards the end of this phase as players begin to specialise. Sessions will include: • Football-specific warm-ups • Small-sided games • Position-specific work • Function/phase of play • 9v9/11v11 games

Professional Development Phase U17-U21

During this phase, our full-time apprentices are training to progress into reserve and first team football. They will be expected to adapt a more mature approach and display both technical excellence and an awareness of their roles and responsibilities within a team structure. This must be maintained as the demands of the game and training environment increase.

Professional Development Phase U17-U21 – Training to Compete

Focus: Outcomes: Variety of formations Understanding systems of play

Team Principles, roles & Tactically mature

responsibilities professional manner

Technical Excellence Improved performance

Preparation for adult Cope with success football & failure on & off pitch

Athletic Systems Constant monitoring &

programming

Training Schedule U17 – U21 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

8.30 Injured/

Strappings

Injured/

Strappings

Injured/

Strappings

Injured/

Strappings

Injured/

Strappings

G

A

M

E

D

A

Y

O

F

F

8.45 Core (Gym)

Depending on

Midweek Game

Core (Gym)

Depending on

Midweek Game

Core(Gym)/

Weights/

Fitness

Conditioning/

Recovery

Rest Light Core (Gym)

10.00 Injury

Prevention

Injury

Prevention

C

O

L

L

E

G

E

Injury

Prevention

Training

(Football)

10.30 Training

(Football)

Training

(Football)

Training

(Football)

12.00 Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch

1.30 Gym

(Upper

Body)

Training

(Football)

Gym

(Lower

Body)

Training

(Football)

Training

(Football)

C

O

L

L

E

G

E

3.30 Additional

Work

Additional

Work

Additional

Work

5.00 Rest Rest Rest Rest Rest

Coaching Syllabus U17 - U21

Passing & Receiving

Possession and

Transitions

Movement &

Combination Play

Attacking & Defending

Crossing and Shooting


Thursday or Friday – Individual, unit and team shape in preparation for weekend fixtures.

Session Routine U17 - U21

9.00–10.00

• Core Stability 9.00 - 9.30 – First Year Apprentices

• Core Stability 9.30 – 10.00 – Second Year Apprentices

10.00-10.30 • Injury Prevention/SAQ Football Related Warm up

10.30-11.00 • Opposed/Unopposed Practices

11.00-11.30 • Game Related Practice

11.30-12.00 • Function/Phase of play/ SSG/ 11v11

Goalkeepers U9-U21

The demands placed on goalkeepers in the modern game require them to be technically excellent with both feet and hands. The combination of specialist goalkeeper training and time spent with relevant age-group coaches will enable them to develop these all-round abilities.

Goalkeepers U9-U21

Focus: Outcomes: Foot work Master the ball Handling Safe Hands Positioning Understanding position in relation to the goal Appreciation of defenders position Experience and appreciation of defensive positions Feedback and observations Learning from successes and mistakes

Goalkeeping Coaching Syllabus 9-21

Understanding

Shot Stopping

Positioning and Footwork

Diving Saves

Distribution

Crosses and High Balls

Player Assessment

In addition to our existing twice yearly written assessment based on the four-corner model, players from U8 to U21 will receive an assessment sheet at the end of each block period every 6 weeks. This block feedback sheet will be specific to the topic covered, and contain performance/skill targets against which the players will assess themselves, as well as being assessed by their coach.

Example Assessment Sheets

Games Programme Format

Age

Format Ball Size

Pitch Size

(yards)

Maximum Goal Size

(feet)

U7 – U9 5 v 5 3 30x20 to 40x30 12 x 6

U10 7 v 7 4 50x30 to 60x40 12 x 6

U11 9v9 4 70x40 to 80x50 16 x 7 to 21 x 7

U12 –U13 11v11 4 90x60 16 x 7 to 21 x 7

U14-U15

11v11

5

90x60 to 100x60

21x7

U16 –U18

11v11 5 110x70 24 x 8

Youth Development Progressions

In order to match the challenges of training and games to the individual needs of our players, sometimes players may be played up or down an age group. • U12 – U15’s – to play up an age group • U16’s – to play in Youth Team • 1st year apprentices – regular start in their

position in Youth team. • 1st & 2nd year apprentices – to play in U21 or

Reserve Team fixtures • U21 or Reserve Team to - play in 1st Team

Players Code of Conduct PLAYER’S CODE OF CONDUCT Youth Academy 1) Appearance: Club tracksuit and uniforms to be worn at all matches No earrings or jewellery allowed at any time. Correct footwear to be used at all times (Youth Academy at Ivybridge - Astro trainers not moulded studs to be worn on directive of the College). Boots / trainers must be kept clean. 2) Cleanliness: Boys should be aware that showers are available after all matches. Personal hygiene is very important, especially in regards to cuts etc. that need to be looked after and cleaned. Injuries must be reported to age group coach or physiotherapist who will then be able to provide further medical advice if necessary. 3) Behaviour: Both on and off the field it is vital that you behave in an exemplary manner. Show respect to your team mates, all staff and also the opposition. Behaviour on coaches to away games has caused concern and it is important to keep transport clean and tidy. Bad language will not be tolerated. 4) Attendance: All training sessions / matches (when selected) must be attended. They are for your benefit. If for any reason you cannot attend then 24 hours notice prior to training and 48 hours prior to games must be given. 5) Punctuality: Please ensure that you arrive in good time prior to away fixtures. We are invariably on a tight schedule for long trips and we must depart on time. We suggest you arrive 15 minutes before departure. 6) Training: Arrival 10 / 15 minutes early will give you warm up time and allow a full coaching session. 7) Standards: The maintaining of high standards in all that we do is very important for the image that we create. You will be judged not only on your football ability but on attitude, application and behaviour. Players are strictly forbidden to write, dictate or inspire any article to the press, radio or electronic media without submitting such matter to the Academy Manager for approval. Players must also ensure that any contributions that they may make to any other media to which the public may have access, e.g. social media websites etc. portray themselves and the Club in a positive manner. Players should also be aware that Football League rules forbid the publication of match results at schoolboy level. It is important to remember that you are representing Plymouth Argyle F.C. and your conduct reflects onto the Club. Signed: ………………………………………………………………… Date: …………...……………... PRINT FULL NAME: ………………………………………………………………….………………...

Parents Code of Conduct PARENT’S CODE OF CONDUCT Youth Academy The conduct of the Parents / Guardians of boys within our Youth Academy is very important to both the staff and the players. The Football League have a section on their Training / Match analysis sheets on parental behaviour. We need your co-operation in many ways to ensure we obtain good working practices with your children. Behaviour towards match officials, opposing boys and parents has been a cause for concern in centres and football in general over a number of years. We insist upon certain practices which must be applied to achieve the standards and produce the correct environment for both our boys and the opposition to enjoy and hence develop. Parents should under no circumstances be vocal in any way towards match officials. They have a very difficult job without any intimation from the sides. Parents should never coach or impart any advice to boys playing, there is only 1 person who the boys should listen to - their Coach / Manager. Parents should applaud good play from both teams. Parents should never stand on the side of the pitch that the coaches / subs are utilising. Parents should follow the guidelines set down by any other Academies that we play. Parents should not encourage boys when they are substitutes (or during intervals) to leave the coach’s area. They must stay with him at all times during and post-match. (Warm down - debrief). It is the parents’ responsibility to ensure that their sons arrive in good time for away matches and arrive at the dropping off points in good time to meet their sons on return. The Club understand the time and effort that parents take to see your son(s) attend / play and that parents feel they have to have an input into their development, but while they are training / playing games the Club must be in total control of them. Parents are strictly forbidden to write, dictate or inspire any article to the press, radio or electronic media without submitting such matter to the Academy Manager for approval. Parents must also ensure that any contributions that they may make to any other media to which the public may have access, e.g. social networking sites etc. portray the Club in a positive manner. Finally, parents are also reminded that Football League rules strictly forbid the publication, by any means, of match results at schoolboy level. Signed: ………………………………………………………………… Date: ………………...………... PRINT FULL NAME: …………………………………………………………………………….……...

Safeguarding Children & Young Persons

Policies and procedures are reviewed annually by the Technical Board. Plymouth Argyle’s Youth Academy acknowledges its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of every young person entrusted to its care. For confidential assistance, contact our Child Protection Officer, Pete Bellamy Tel. 01752 562561 Extension 159 Office hours: 8am – 1pm Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays e-mail [email protected] or 07866 701180 mobile, in emergencies only Further advice can be obtained from: • The Football League: Ann HUSSEY: Tel: 01772 325811 • Devon County F.A.: Dave KEAST: Tel: 01626 325913 • Football Association / NSPCC 24 hour helpline: Tel: 0808 800 5000 • Online at www.TheFA.com/Goal • F.A. Safeguarding Children Team: Tel: 0207 745 4787

http://www.TheFA.com/Goal

http://www.TheFA.com/Goal

Staff Contact Details

Kevin Hodges Academy Manager & Professional Development Phase Lead Coach Phone: 07824 357441 Email: [email protected] Gary Owers Head of Coaching & Professional Development Phase Coach Phone: 07736 625523 Email: [email protected] Ian Stonebridge Youth Development Phase Lead Coach 12-16 & Lead Sport Scientist Phone: 07957 396438 Email: [email protected] Phil Stokes Foundation Phase Lead Coach 5-11 Phone: 07972 878126 Email: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]




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