Northern NSW Football has undertaken a comprehensive review of its Junior Development League which it believes will improve pathways for players and coaches as well as raise standards for clubs.
The Junior Development League is the pathway competition for girls and boys in the under-9s to under-12s age groups, or the skill acquisition phase of their development.
NNSWF transitioned from a zone-based Skill Acquisition Program model to a club-based league several years ago based on the direction that clubs should be at the heart of player development.
But NNSWF was not satisfied with the implementation. A 12-person JDL working group was formed with the aim to ensure an effective structure that included clubs outside the current premier clubs, integrate regional clubs and assess the appropriateness of the current criteria.
The working group’s goal was to provide a recommended path forward with a focus on three elements:
- A new three-tiered merit-based structure
- A criteria for excellence
- Clarification of the JDL’s position on the Talented Player Pathway
The JDL’s evolution aims to clarify its position on the Talented Pathways, enable parity between boys and girls within the JDL, align with Football Australia’s Talented Development Scheme and commit to providing a level playing field for girls.
NNSWF Director David Willougby led the review and said he was pleased with the outcome.
“We are committed to improving the environment for our next generation of talented players,” Willoughby said.
“The overarching proposal is to introduce a model that classifies each JDL program as either gold, silver or bronze, with Bronze being the minimum standard to join the JDL from season 2025. These categories focus on providing quality learning environments and improving coaching standards.
