Tài liệu The Football Association of Ireland Technical Development Plan 2004-2008 ppt

The Football Association of Ireland
Technical Development Plan 2004-2008
The Football Association of Ireland
Technical Development Plan 2004-2008
2
Contents
INTRODUCTION
3
President’s message
5
Chief Executive’s message
7
Technical Director’s message
9
International Team Manager’s message
Section 1.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Section 2.
FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
13
Context
14
The Irish Framework for the development of soccer
15
Planning and consultation process
18
Mission
19
Specific objectives
Section 3.
BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER

23
The Player Development Pathway
28
Grassroots soccer
– The Children’s Game
– The Men’s Game
– The Women’s Game
– Football for All
36
Emerging Talent
37
High Performance
Section 4.
SERVICES, TRAINING AND EDUCATION
40
Coaches
42
Referees
43
Administrators
44
Parents
Section 5.
LOCAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL STRUCTURES
47
Strengthening Clubs
48
Strengthening Leagues
50
Creating Quality Facilities

Section 6.
MANAGEMENT, STRUCTURE AND FINANCE
53
Technical Department Structure
55
Funding and Resources
56
Measurement and Review
58
Outline Implementation Plan
Section 7.
APPENDICES
61
1. Dates and venues for consultation
62
2. List of Atendees
64
3. Main outcomes from consultation
83
4. Draft Statement of Player Capacities
88
5. Roles and Responsibilities
President’s message
Introduction
We in the FAI know the life enhancing power of football,the effect it has on our health,our minds, the way it brings
us together and gives us a sense of national pride and identity.
The FAI envisage an Ireland where everyone can participate in football throughout their lives whether as players,
coaches, referees, administrators or in any other part of the game. We also look forward to the day when our high
potential players,men and women,are lifted by a supportive infrastructure to help them to sustain and improve
upon our success to date.

The FAI is 83 years-old this year and in all of that time there has never been a cohesive strategy for the long term
development of players, until now.
The development of this plan has undergone a wide process of consultation,unlike anything seen in Irish football or
perhaps in Irish sport. A wide range of views has emerged and there was no shortage of tasks our stakeholders
would like us to do.
The impact of this plan will, in my opinion,provide people at local regional and national levels with an opportunity
to participate and progress within the game on a scale that is far greater than can be imagined.
Milo Corcoran
President
3
3
Chief Executive’s message
THE mandate of the FAI is to foster and develop the game increasing participation at all levels and for both genders.
In fulfilling this mandate, the development of football related activities and programmes of the highest levels from
the playground to the representative teams at European and World level is essential.
This Technical Development Plan outlines the extensive work undertaken by the Association in the Technical area
and provides the clearest possible vision of how the FAI working with the football community can extend this
programme of work and transform the way the game is developed into the future.
The benefits to our players,our game and ultimately our communities are tangible ones. Player development,
personal development, social and psychological development in addition to the core technical aspects of the
pathways outlined in the plan bring substantial benefits to all our communities.
The plan sets detailed, comprehensive and ambitious targets and I know that successful implementation of the plan
will radically change the way we approach many aspects of the development and management of football in Ireland.
Football is the most popular sporting activity in the country, crossing cultural and gender barriers.The Technical
Development Plan will provide the young people of Ireland with a development path from nursery to elite interna-
tional status unrivalled in any other sport. It will give a pathway and lifelong experience of the game to all who
participate. I hope the Irish state, business community, media and the public provide their complete support, as we
look to build a better game for the future generations.
Fran Rooney
CEO

Technical Director’s message
COACHES at all levels recognise that training and competition is essential to player success.They should also know
that young players are not miniature adults and that the emphasis and content of training differs according to the
developmental age of the player. Consequently, it is a long term process for young players to develop into elite
players.
With very young players,the emphasis of training should be on basic co-ordination and movement acquisition in a
fun environment and while challenges and competition are an essential part of training, they should not be the focus
of it.
As young players move through to each new phase of their development, the process and the programme should
be clear. It must also be methodical to allow easy transition to the next phase. Consideration of what should be
coached, when, for how long and how often, must be related to critical periods – the ‘windows of trainability’. Again
these must be linked if players are to reach their potential and fully develop as a person.Thus, it is essential to
develop and use a Long Term Plan for player development.
These considerations have involved the FAI in a critical examination of current coaching and training methods for
players.Study has been made of methods used by those countries which have achieved success in developing
football players on a consistent basis.The outcome of this assessment identifies areas which have to be redefined or
changed as appropriate within our game.
Our coaching and training structure and content will,with the help of the UEFA, the Irish Sports Council and the
National Coaching and Training Centre be re-designed. Our competitive schedules must be re-assessed to allow all
players more time to train, learn and master the movement, mental, technical and tactical skills necessary for them
to reach their true potential.
The FAI Long Term Player Development Programme as part of the Technical Development Plan will contribute to
skills, fitness and knowledge among Irish football players in the years to come.
We are all charged with the responsibility to ensure that players are provided with the best opportunities to fulfil
their dreams.
Packie Bonner
Technical Director
International Team Manager’s message
DURING my time as Underage International Team Manager and Technical Director, the deficiencies in current
methods of player development and the lack of structured,clear programmes or pathways for young players became

very obvious.
Having had the opportunity to see and compare what other progressive nations, both large and small have imposed
in their football system,I felt it was imperative that the Association in conjunction with the best coaches in Ireland
came up with some new thinking for the development of football in Ireland.
While the structures of clubs and competitive leagues have produced young players of some ability, many of whom
repeatedly emigrate to British clubs, our system in general has failed to produce players of a consistently high
technical ability in comparison to our European counterparts. In other vital areas such as core strength and tactical
awareness, our players are way behind,which was particularly obvious in recent European club encounters.
With the massive potential and talent available, I feel a new approach,with the emphasis on a long term and co-
ordinated approach to developing players, involving all the partners in Irish soccer, will have major benefits for all
levels of the game in Ireland and of course, our national teams in the future.
It is essential that long term player development programmes be integrated to our structures in order to continue
to be competitive at all international levels and crucially, to improve the overall standard of football here in Ireland.
Having been involved in the process of the Technical Development Plan since its inception,I am delighted that the
document and its contents have received a wide welcome across the game as the way forward.The implementation
of the plan will take time and extraordinary dedication, but I feel the will is there to change and improve the type of
player being produced by our system, whilst maintaining the inherent competitiveness of Irish players.
Brian Kerr
International Team Manager
9
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7
7
The Football Association of Ireland’s Technical Development Plan has been compiled following a period of extensive
study and stakeholder consultation over the last three years. The plan sets out the Irish framework for coaching
and player development under the leadership of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) from 2004 - 2008 and
incorporates complimentary actions in refereeing, administration and training facility development.
Nine key objectives are outlined and the plan will seek to:
1. Define a clear philosophy and realistic pathways for the development of Irish players
2. Increase the quality and quantity of coaches,referees and administrators through an extensive programme of

education, support and resources at local, regional and national level
3. Increase grassroots participation
4. Provide a clear development structure for emerging talent
5. Create structured links between the underage game, the emerging talent programme and the semi-professional /
professional game in Ireland, UK and Europe
6. Enhance the standards of the National League against European benchmarks
7. Achieve and sustain international success
8. Provide guidelines and a framework for the development of quality training facilities at local,regional and national
Level
9.To put in place a structure to implement the Technical Development Plan which links club/school,county,
provincial, national and international aspects of the game
The Plan sets out the goals and actions which will drive the achievement of the above objectives. In addition, a full
re-organisation of the Technical Department of the FAI is proposed. The resources required to implement the plan
will be sought from within the game; commercial and corporate revenue, sponsorship and the Irish Government.
The implementation of the plan will be driven by the FAI’s Technical Department with half yearly and annual
evaluation reports produced for the Board of Management and regular updates to relevant key committees.These
reports will provide the basis for the continuous evaluation and adaptation of the plan against the objectives which
have been outlined.
Developing the Irish Game
Section 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
11
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Soccer is the world’s leading sport. The game provides a healthy,enjoyable outlet for children and adults all over
the globe. In Ireland, soccer is a central part of sporting culture and plays a vital role in developing individuals and
in achieving international success.
Government policy has increasingly recognised the importance of sport to social,cultural, economic and
educational progress and through the policies of the Irish Sports Council, the Government is seeking to increase
participation in sport and maximise performances on the international stage.
While much progress has been made in developing the game in this country to date, there is a growing
recognition that the sport’s governing body, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) needs to proactively reform the

way in which soccer is developed and managed. The need for a new direction was forcefully highlighted in the
FAI/Genesis Report (2002), which called for root-and-branch change within the organisation.
Significant progress has already been made in the implementation of the recommendations of the Genesis Report,
particularly in relation to the governance of the organisation.
Developments at national and international level also reinforce the need for changes in the way the game is
organised in this country and UEFA has recently signalled the importance of developing grass roots football in a
planned and systematic way. Within Ireland,the Irish Sports Council has highlighted the need for a more strategic
approach to the development of sport, while the National Coaching and Training Centre has drawn attention to the
fact that player development is a long-term process, taking ten years or more.
There was and has never been, since the foundation of the Association, a clear and concise plan to meet the needs
of players at each stage of their development and this has led to a lack of quality playing and coaching opportunities
within the game in comparison with other developed football nations. While interest in playing the game has grown
dramatically, the structures required to sustain this interest are not fully in place.This has led to a situation where
certain areas of the country and particular target groups are still struggling to find opportunities to play the game at
their own level.
On the international stage Irish teams have achieved many great results and performances over the years but in
order to sustain this success the game in Ireland must be developed in line with international best practice where
the leading nations have through their relevant Football Associations integrated the development of players into
their overall thinking, practice, philosophy and structure.
The next step, therefore, must be to ensure that the game is developed on a technically sound basis in this
country.This essential phase in the development of the FAI must take full account of the needs of players at each
phase of their development.
There is a need for a clear, agreed plan which provides a defined set of objectives for the development of the
game and outlines a clear programme of action,The identification of who is responsible for implementing these
actions has been determined and realistic timescales for their implementation outlined.
The delivery and implementation of the plan will provide a sound philosophy and framework to guide decision
making at all levels of the game and within the organisation.
Context
Section 2.1 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
13

Soccer is the world’s leading sport. The game provides a healthy,enjoyable outlet for children and adults all over
the globe. In Ireland,soccer is a central part of sporting culture and plays a vital role in developing individuals and in
achieving international success.
Football in Ireland is entering an important new era.The consultation process which underpins this document has
shown clearly that the FAI needs to take a strong leadership role in the future. A new and agreed framework for
the development of football needs to be put in place and should include the following;
● The FAI must be more player oriented in all its
decision making and structures (See figure 1)
● The FAI should provide a clear framework for
developing players at all levels of the game
● The FAI needs to take a strong leadership role in
implementing the overall framework
● There needs to be an agreed,clear,effective and
cohesive structure within the Technical Department
in order to implement the Technical Development
Plan
● The structure needs to promote open and two-
way communication and effective linkages between
national, regional and local levels within the game
● Volunteers and professionals must work together in
a spirit of openness, respect and mutual trust
● In order for the Technical Development Plan to be
implemented the importance of working together
towards a common goal needs to be recognised at all
levels of the FAI
● The framework must be developed taking due account
of Government policy in general and the policies of the
Irish Sports Council in particular (e.g. anti doping; code of
ethics; participation; performance and excellence)
● The development of Irish players should be guided by

best practice and the principles of long term player
development
The Irish Framework for the
development of Soccer
Section 2.2 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
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Players
Figure 1. Player Centered Decision Making
As a result of this framework the guiding philosophy of the FAI will be;
“ to help all players fulfil their full potential by respecting them as individuals with their distinctive needs and talents, to
assist them to develop their athletic abilities, build on their soccer skills and maximise their tactical awareness.
The FAI will strive to ensure that all decisions made are in the interests of players and the development of the game in
Ireland.”
PHILOSOPHY
14
The origins of the Technical Development Plan date as far back as 1998, when Brian Kerr was appointed by the FAI
as Technical Director. At the request of the Association,a major remit for the Technical Director was the

formulation of a national plan for the development of soccer, with particular emphasis on the underage game. Prior
to completing his term as Technical Director, Brian Kerr made considerable progress and brought the plan to a
significant stage of development. This work has now been taken on to completion by the new Technical Director,
Packie Bonner.
The development of the plan has taken place under the guidance of a Technical Development Plan Working Group.
This Committee initially consisted of Brian Kerr, Packie Bonner, Richard Fahy, Noel O’Reilly, Brian McCarthy, Sean
McCaffrey,Trevor Lovell,Michael Tattersall and Jimmy McDermott.
Dr Pat Duffy, Director of the National Coaching and Training Centre, acted as Chairman of the group and from
the outset outlined the need for a core set of principles which would guide the development group in the
completion of the plan.
These core principles included;
Consultation
The need to consult with all stakeholders in order to ensure that all views are considered and where possible
represented in the plan
A people-centred focus
The need to concentrate on meeting the needs of all people involved in the game but maintain an ultimate focus on
the development of better players.This people centred focus will be based on a fair and ethical approach at all levels
of the game; a friendly and cooperative approach from FAI staff; building confidence; willingness to share ideas; hard
work;humility and listening
Participation
Reinforcement of the principal objective of the FAI,which is to maximise the number of people involved in the
game of football in the Republic of Ireland
Excellence
The need to support Irish players and teams in reaching their full potential in national and international competition
with the support of quality coaching and technical support
Quality
A desire to improve and develop the game at all levels
Customer service
A desire to improve upon the provision of services and to pass on knowledge and experience which meet the
needs of people involved in the game at local, regional and national levels

Social responsibility
Realisation of the FAI’s responsibility to provide an alternative lifestyle for young people in disadvantaged areas
Technical Development Plan Process
Section 2.3 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
Section 2.3
Recognition
Recognition of the massive work carried out by volunteers and professionals within the game
Equality
To ensure that underdeveloped areas of the game e.g. women, schools, players with disabilities will receive adequate
support and services
Sustainability
An essential element of development is recognition of the responsibility to sustain the development of the game for
future generations
Accountability
The achievement of optimum benefit from available resources
Partnership
Recognition that the development of the game depends on a partnership approach from all sectors of the game and
society
Later, in order to widen the range of views represented at the table the Planning Committee was extended to include
Jack Carthy (SFAI),Brian Fitzmorris (SFAI),Niamh O’Donoghue (WFAI),Donal Conway (FAIS), Dennis Cruise (Junior
Football),Ian Barclay (Intermediate Football),Brendan Dillon (Eircom League), Pat Kelly (FAI Referees Department), John
Delaney (FAI Honorary Treasurer) Gerry McAnaney (Defence Forces),Terry McCauley (Irish Universities) and Des Casey,
former FAI Honorary Secretary and UEFA representative.
In order to ensure that the Plan addressed the needs of football at all levels, 14 Regional Consultation workshops were
organised, with over 1,000 attendees.These workshops sought the views of football people, at grassroots level, on how the
game should be developed for the new millennium. (Appendix 1 outlines the venues for the consultation meetings.
Appendix 2 provides a list of attendees. The main outcomes/feedback from the workshops is provided in Appendix 3.)
The Executive and Board of Management of the FAI were kept appraised of the progress of the Plan at the appropriate
stages. Key Committees of the Association were consulted as well as experienced coaches and managers; former national
and international level players;regional development officers and coach education personnel.External agencies such as the

Irish Sports Council (ISC); the National Coaching and Training Centre (NCTC); educational interests and others were also
consulted.
A final draft was developed for consideration at a summit of administrators and coaches in January 2004. Following the
summit, this draft was subjected to final approval by the FAI Council and Board of Management prior to its publication.
Section 2.3 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
Appointment of
Technical Director
Initial Consultations with Coaches, Managers, Key
Personnel, Tutors, RDO’s and others
Establishment of
Planning Group
Consultation Draft
End of March 2003
Extension of
Planning
Committee
Preparation
of Draft for
Technical
Summit
FAI Summit
January 2004
Approval by
FAI Council
and Board of
Management
Launch of
Plan
June 2004
Implementation

of Plan
Internal Consultation
Meetings
Officer Board
Board of Management
SFAI
WFAI
FAIS
Junior
Intermediate
FAI Committees
National League
External Agencies
Irish Sports Council
Government
FAI Officer Board
FAI Board of Management
Football Development Committee
Preparation and
Presentation of
Draft Plan
14 Consultation Workshops
Submissions
Analysis of Responses
Section 2.4 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
The Technical Development Plan is the vehicle through
which an agreed,effective and integrated coaching,
training and competitive framework will be achieved.
Under the leadership of the Football Association of
Ireland the provision of more enjoyable and

fulfilling opportunities and pathways for all
people involved in the game will be achieved
through the delivery of high quality programmes,
structures and facilities.
This Mission Statement will provide a clear focus
and a changed landscape for Irish football
resulting in the delivery of the following
outcomes:
● More players participating in quality football programmes which are matched to their age and stage of development
● More coaches that are better educated to deal with the age and stage related needs of their players
● Clear pathways for all players, coaches, referees and administrators within the game
● A unified structure linking club / school, county,provincial and national levels supported by full time personnel at
county, provincial and national levels
● A revised competition structure to meet the needs of players at each stage of their development
● An emerging talent programme linking into all levels of the game and in particular to underage / youth clubs
and clubs in the national league
● Sustained success at international level
● An enhanced National League
● High quality regional centres and a national centre in place
● A fully reorganised, resourced and professionally run Technical Department
Mission Statement
Section 2.5 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
The following specific objectives and areas of focus have been identified to increase playing, coaching and adminis-
tration standards in the game of soccer in Ireland during the next five years:
Specific Objectives and Areas of
Development Focus
1
2
3
1. Define the philosophy and pathways for the development of Irish players:

● Establish a clear philosophy and pathway to guide programmes,practice and decision making into
the future
● Develop a comprehensive player manual which encompasses the FAI player development
philosophy
● Provide and implement clear guidelines, based on sound principles, on the balance between training
and competition at the different stages of development
● Undertake a full review of the existing competition model and implement the recommendations of
same
2. Increase the quality and quantity of coaches, referees and administrators
through an extensive programme of education, training and resources at local,
regional and national level :
● Devise, re-design and fully implement all of the education courses outlined in the Technical
Development Plan
● Further align the qualifications of coaches to UEFA and NCTC standards
● Increase the number and distribution of educational opportunities around the country,with a
strong emphasis on local needs and delivery
● Raise the status of football qualifications and provide opportunities for continuous professional
development.
3. Increase grassroots participation:
● Increase participation through quality grassroots programmes relating to,
– Children
– Clubs, Leagues and Schools
– Women’s football
– Players with special needs
– The retention of players from adolescent
through to the adult game
4
4. Provide a clear development structure for emerging talent:
● Develop in partnership with relevant affiliates an Emerging Talent Development Programme for 9 -
12 year olds,13 - 16 year olds and 17 – 21 year olds

● Develop appropriate competition structures which fully align with the Emerging Talent
Development Programme
● Put in place an agreed policy for the movement of underage players
● Put in place an agreed compensation mechanism for under-age clubs concerning the movement of
their players to the semi-professional and professional game
– Referees
– Administrators
– Parents
– Socially excluded members of society
5
6
5. Create structured links between underage football, FAI emerging talent
programme and the semi-professional / professional game in Ireland, UK and
Europe:
● Implement existing regulations concerning the movement of young players to semi-professional and
professional clubs
● Establish an advisory and monitoring service for players / coaches in the areas of career and
education
● Put in place a national academy structure that provides training, education, competition and advice
to Emerging High Performance players prior to and during the early stages of their semi professional
and professional careers
● Optimise the choices of players so that they can pursue the most appropriate playing opportunities
for themselves in the National League, UK and Europe
● Establish and implement models of best practice in partnership with organisations involved in the
identification and representation of talented players
6. Enhance the standards of the National League against European benchmarks:
● Assist National League Clubs to adopt and implement the UEFA club licence Technical guidelines
● To create a pathway within the National League structure that caters for emerging talent
● Improve the Technical Department’s service to all managers and coaches within the National
League

● Improve the competitiveness of National League Clubs in European Competitions and the standing
of the National League in the UEFA International Club Competition Coefficient
7
7. Achieve and sustain international success:
● Continue to adopt a planned and progressive approach to international training and competition
schedules
● Maintain competitiveness and standing in UEFA/FIFA rankings
● Continue to develop the capacities (technical,tactical, mental, physical, personal, lifestyle) of players
at underage international level in order to maximise the possibility of the international teams
qualifying and competing in major tournaments
● Develop world class sports science, medical and technological back-up systems so that all
International teams continue to achieve success at major international tournaments
● Constantly monitor European and World trends within the game and within sport
● Extend player recruitment policies on a global basis, while promoting a hunger, passion and compet-
itiveness to play for Ireland
Section 2.5
Section 2.5 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
8
8. Provide guidelines and a framework for the development of quality facilities at
local, regional and national Level:
● Analyse existing facility provision
● Implement facility grading criteria at local, regional and national levels
● Map out future facility requirements with an emphasis on quality and the standardisation of facilities
and equipment
● Work in partnership with Government,local authorities, clubs, schools and colleges to maximise
the range of quality facilities available
● Devise agreements between the FAI and facility operators for the use of training facilities for the
delivery of FAI programmes
● The establishment of Regional Football Centres and a high quality National Football Coaching and
Training Centre

9
9. To put in place a structure to implement the Technical Development Plan:
● Re- organise the Technical Department to deliver the objectives of the Technical Development Plan
in an effective manner
● To establish procedures for monitoring and evaluating the progress of the Technical Development
Plan
● Establish County / Regional Technical Fora to assist in the implementation of the key objectives of
the plan
● Facilitate clubs, leagues and affiliates in strengthening their structures
● Align administration and competition structures with the goals outlined in the Football
Development Plan
● Resource the implementation of the plan, through a combination of FAI, Government,commercial,
sponsorship and local investment
● Ensure that the Technical Development Plan is a core element of the FAI’s mission for the future
A great deal of voluntary effort has been expended, over many decades, for the development of football in Ireland.
This dedication and selflessness has helped to produce many outstanding players at amateur, professional and
international levels. It has also ensured that a wide network of clubs, schools and leagues have been built up
providing many opportunities for all ages to play the game.
However, taking into account the speed of change within the European and World game and the recent successes
of so-called less developed football nations at club and international level it is clear that a coherent, structured,and
player-centred development pathway needs to be put in place for the Irish game
At present,from grassroots through to Elite Youth,National League and International Football,there is NO
DEFINABLE pathway guiding players to a level of football which will fulfil their potential, and retain them in the
game for life. Regional differences merely highlight the lack of consistent, measurable, and democratic opportunities
for players to develop to their maximum.
Players at all levels and ages need opportunities to fulfil their potential, and enjoy the game as much as possible.At
present Irish players, compared to their European counterparts, are not afforded sufficient opportunities to attain a
level of preparation, training, competition and required lifestyle which will challenge enthuse and motivate them to
further improvement and career advancement.
The pace of modern day life in Ireland has increased dramatically in the last 10 years and because of this more

emphasis needs to be placed on the mental, personal and lifestyle elements of a player’s development. From a
football perspective, more attention needs to be paid to the technical, tactical and physical development of players.
Younger players need to be provided with the opportunity to develop their skills and decision making in both
practice and competition situations. Specific game formats should be adopted for the different age groups and the
right balance between practice and competition achieved.The age and gender profile of some leagues is unbalanced
and overtly competitive at too early a stage in a player’s development.The structures for the development of players
with special needs must also be developed.
Research has shown that the long-term development of players is a process that can take ten years or more and
the programmes and structures of the FAI must recognise the requirements and phases of this process.
Player Development Pathway
Section 3.1 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
18
Section 3.1
In the recently published consultation paper “Building Pathways in Irish Sport” the
National Coaching and Training Centre stated:
Based on this framework, fun, fundamental motor skills and soccer specific skill development should be strongly
emphasised at an early age. Competition for younger children needs to be balanced with the need to develop skills.
Presently in Ireland there is an over emphasis on competition to the detriment of opportunities to practice. If younger
players are to develop their skills and decision making,they need to be exposed to enjoyable practices to develop their
capacities on a regular basis.There is a need to review existing competition structures to ensure that the right balance
is achieved between training and competition at the different age groups.
The FAI in consultation with the NCTC and international player/athlete development expert Dr. Istvan Balyi have
developed a six phase model of long term player development (see figure 3). The main elements of these phases are
presented below in a modified form;
Phase 1 – The FUNdamental Phase
Age: Males 6 to 9/Females 6 to 8 years
The main objective of this phase is to learn all the fundamental movement skills using a well-structured, positive and
fun approach. Soccer skills should be introduced, with an emphasis on fun, skill development and small-sided games.
Appropriate and correct running, jumping and throwing techniques are taught using the ABC’s of athletics. Participation
in as many sports as possible is encouraged. The development of these fundamental movement skills will contribute

significantly to future at achievements.
Phase 2 – The Learning to Train Phase
Age: Males 9 to 12/Females 8 to 11 years
The main objective of this phase is to learn the specific soccer skills in conjunction with FUNdamental skills from a
range of other sports.These skills form the cornerstone of all player development. An emphasis on technical
development should be a key part of this phase, with the 7 v 7 game being introduced,progressing to 9 v 9
“Scientific research has concluded that it takes eight to twelve years of
training for a player/athlete to reach elite levels. This is called the ten year
rule or 10,000 hour rule, which translates to slightly more than three hours
practice daily for ten years. Unfortunately, parents and coaches in many
sports still approach training with an attitude best characterised as ‘peaking
by Friday’, where a short term approach is taken to training and performance
with an over emphasis on immediate results. We now know that a long-term
commitment to practice and training is required to produce elite
players/athletes in all sports.
A specific and well-planned practice, training, competition and recovery
regime will ensure optimum development throughout a Player/athlete’s
career. Ultimately, sustained success comes from training and performing well
over the long term rather than winning in the short term. There is no
shortcut to success in athletic preparation. Rushing competition will always
result in shortcomings in physical, technical, tactical, mental, personal and
lifestyle capacities”.
Section 3.1 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Phase 3 – The Training to Train Phase
Age: Males 12 to 16/Females 11 to 15 Years
The main objective of this phase is to consolidate basic soccer skills,introduce the basic elements of tactics and to
address the two critical periods of physical development namely the aerobic base and strength of players. It should
be noted that both aerobic and strength trainability is dependent on maturation levels and not solely chronological
age.
Phase 4 – The Training to Compete Phase

Age: Males 16 to 18/Females 15 to 17 years
The main objective of this phase is to optimise fitness preparation and soccer, individual and position-specific skills
as well as performance. More advanced tactical elements of the game are introduced. During this phase, high
intensity individual, and position-specific training is provided to players. Soccer specific skills are performed under a
variety of competitive conditions during training. Special emphasis is placed on optimum preparation by modelling
training and competition.
Phase 5 – The Training to Win Phase
Age: Males 18yrs and older/Females 17 yrs and older
This final phase of player preparation aims to maximise fitness preparation and soccer,individual and position-
specific skills as well as performance. All of the player’s capacities are now fully established and players are trained
to peak for major competitions. Training is characterised by high intensity and relatively high volume with frequent
periods of rest.
Phase 6 – The Retainment Phase
This phase refers to the activities performed after a player has retired from competition permanently. The aim of
this phase is to retain players for coaching, sport administration, officiating or recreational participation in the game.
For semi professional and professional players this phase will include career planning and transition.
FUNdamental
Learning to train
Training to train
Training to compete
Training to win
Retirement /
retainment
Soccer Long-term Player Development Model (draft)
The six phases of LTPD in Soccer
1. FUNdamental - build overall motor skills
2. Learning to train - learn all fundamental sports skills, including soccer skills
3. Training to train - build ‘the engine’ and consolidate soccer specific skills
4. Training to compete - fine tune ‘the engine’, position specific skills and
performance

5. Training to win - maximise performance, position specific skills and ‘engine’
6. Retirement/Retainment - adjustment/retain players/athletes for
coaching/administration
Section 3.1
Figure 3
Section 3.2 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Player Capacities along the Pathway
ONE of the key principles of the Long Term Player Development is that the player faces different demands
at each phase of his/her development. The development model outlines these demands and provides an
indication of the capacities that need to be developed by players if they are to successfully negotiate each
phase.
A classification of the capacities required is outlined in figure 4 below. This classification takes a holistic
view of player development and includes technical, tactical, mental, physical,lifestyle and personal capacities
(NCTC).
Appendix 4 outlines in draft form the key capacities to be developed at each phase of the development of
the player.
It is envisaged that these capacities will be subject to final review by national and international experts
before their adoption and publication.This model will form the basis of a comprehensive Player
Development Manual.
Figure 5
Figure 4
Physical
Rest /
Fatigue
Nutrition
Strength
Power
Energy
Systems
Health

Oxygen
Transport
Fuels
Hydration
Nutrients
Absolute
Relative
Specific
Speed
Explosive
Anerobic
Alactic
Anerobic
Lactic
Aerobic
Pulmonary
Peripheral
Central
Recovery
Sleep
Repair
Physical
Rest /
Fatigue
Nutrition
Strength
Power
Energy
Systems
Health

Oxygen
Transport
Fuels
Hydration
Nutrients
Absolute
Relative
Specific
Speed
Explosive
Anerobic
Alactic
Anerobic
Lactic
Aerobic
Pulmonary
Peripheral
Central
Recovery
Sleep
Repair
Within each of these capacities are a variety of sub-capacities which also need to be catered for. It must
be noted that deficiencies in any of the capacities will adversely affect performance in training and in
competition.
Figure 5 provides an example of how the physical capacity
is made up of various sub capacities
Training and
Performance
Training and
Performance

Character
Character
Emotion
Emotion
Tactical
Tactical
Technical
Technical
Mental
Mental
Physical
Physical
Environment
Environment
Injury
Injury
Disease
Disease
Over
Training
Over
Training
Section 3.2 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Organisational Structure
● Establish a Player Development Unit
within the Technical Department
Player Development Model
● Player pathway and relevant capacities to
be defined at all ages with respect to
technical, tactical, physical, mental, personal

and lifestyle development and reviewed
every 3 years by expert coaches nationally
and internationally
Player Development Manual
● Publish and launch the Irish Player
Development Manual dealing with the
technical, tactical, physical, mental, personal
and lifestyle capacities at each phase of the
pathway.
Competition Structures
● Review the National Competitive
framework at local, regional and national
levels – with sound statistical information to
predicate future decision making
● Restructure the competition framework
inline with the Player Development Model
and Emerging Talent Development
Programme
Technical Director and Player Development
Manager (to be appointed)
Set up a working group to include external
advisers to establish a comprehensive
statement of capacities at each stage of the
pathway
Technical Director to appoint editorial team
to research, write and design the player
development manual
CEO and Technical Director to set up a small
working group to include representatives
from affiliates and the national league to

review all competitions and to present
findings and recommendations
Competition Review Working group
MAIN ACTIONS
RESPONSIBILITY
Actions are proposed in the areas of organisational structure; player development
model; player development manual; competition structures;
INCREASING participation in the game at all levels will be a major objective of the Plan.The FAI has a number of
quality grassroots programmes throughout the country, many of which are the envy of National Governing Bodies
in Ireland and National Associations in other countries.
In order to maintain and increase efficiency in this area it is proposed to establish a Grassroots and Regional
Development unit within the Technical Department which will be overseen by a Senior Manager
Specific targets will be set, in the following areas
● The Children’s Game
● The Men’s Game
● The Women’s Game
● Football for All
Each of these areas will now be dealt with in turn.
Grassroots Football
Section 3.2
Section 3.2-1 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
FOOTBALL is a great game for children. It is fun, develops a range of skills and can be played anywhere.The FAI
needs to continue to encourage children to take part and to give them quality experiences which are right for their
age and stage of development. This will lead to more long - term and lifelong involvement in the game. The
environment in which children play the game must be safe, fun and challenging and all practices must comply with
the FAI’s Code of Ethics for Children’s Soccer.
The massive growth in interest that has occurred within the game presents both challenges and opportunities for
the FAI. Access to appropriate coaching and training, allied with appropriate competitive activities are crucial to
ensure that children can have fun and develop their skills in a planned, quality and structured fashion. According to
feedback from the consultation process there is an overemphasis on competition and not enough emphasis on

practice at underage level and this is to the detriment of the further development of quality players.With this issue
in mind it is essential that a detailed review of all competitive opportunities for children is undertaken.
The proposed pathway model for soccer strongly emphasises fundamental motor skills and sport specific skills at
the fundamental and learning to train phases. This means that children up to 12 years should play the game in an
environment where fun,general and specific motor skills are the top priority.
Actions are proposed in the areas of player development manual, coach education, structures, competition, partici-
pation and game format.
The Children’s Game
31
Player Development Manual
● A Player Development Manual for use by coaches
working with children outlining the key technical,
tactical, physical, mental and lifestyle capacities,
practices and competitions at the various stages of a
child’s development will be produced.
Coach Education
● To develop a Coach Education Course structure
that caters for the needs of coaches working with
young people and takes into account the recommen-
dations outlined in the Player Development Manual
Structures, competition and game format
● To implement the recommendations outlined by
the Competitions Review Working Group in relation
to the organisation of competitive opportunities for
children
● To put in place an agreed policy in relation to the
movement of players nationally and internationally
● To implement the specific game formats on a
national basis outlined by the Competitions Review
Working Group

● To encourage all existing leagues to operate girls
sections within their various structures
Participation
● To implement the Buntús Soccer Specific
Programme in 1500 School, Club and Community
Settings
● To co-ordinate and implement high quality,
Summer Soccer Schools which cater for 30,000
children annually by 2008
● To promote Futsal as the official indoor football
game for children and to facilitate the delivery of
competitive Futsal in 10 leagues by 2008
● To implement the inner city Futsal Programme in
80 venues annually by 2008
Technical Director to appoint editorial team to
research, write and design the player development
manual
Coach Education Working Group
FAI, SFAI, WFAI, FAIS and Technical Department
FAI, SFAI, WFAI and National League
SFAI, WFAI, FAIS, Junior and Intermediate Leagues
and Technical Department
FAI, SFAI, FAIS and WFAI
Technical Department, The Irish Sports Council, Local
Sports Partnerships, FAIS
Technical Department, SFAI, WFAI, FAIS.
Technical Department, SFAI, WFAI, FAIS.
Technical Department, LSP’s, SFAI, WFAI and Local
Authorities
MAIN ACTIONS

RESPONSIBILITY
Section 3.2-1