It is no secret that we Australians are sport obsessed. Not a day goes by that we are not exposed to media headlines celebrating the feats of our sporting heroes. We commemorate sporting victories and mourn the losses like our very lives are dependent on the result. Some say our obsession is unhealthy, but hey, who would have it any other way?
Whilst so much of our attention is focused on the amazing feats of those players we idolise, it is no surprise that sometimes we forget what it is that makes our success at the highest of levels even possible. That is, the strength and depth of junior players. The next generation of heroes. The next generation of Soccer Roos.
With Murray United F.C. in full flight, albeit ‘training’ flight, the importance of the National Premier League Pathway for our region’s youngest of players is a message that must be shared across all of our communities and football clubs.
Working with Football Federation Victoria (FFV) and of course the National Premier Leagues (NPL), Murray United FC is very excited to be offering a Skills Acquisition Program (SAP) unlike anything seen in the region before. Specifically designed to address the development needs of talented U9, U10 and U11 players, the Murray United FC SAP promises to perfect and accelerate the skill development of players of these critical age groups.
So what makes the Murray United FC SAP unique and so critical for our youngest football players?
Murray United FC SAP is a program implemented by Football Federation Australia to prepare players wanting to enter the NPL. If a talented child has aspirations of a real career in football, this program will provide a direct transition from SAP to Junior NPL and the Elite Player Pathways established by the NPL.
Murray United FC SAP participants greatly benefit their own playing development by participating in gala tournaments attended by Australia’s best young players. The NPL is where the best junior players are playing countrywide, so an NPL based SAP program is where the most talented players should be focused.
Recognising that the Murray United FC SAP is truly there for the development of the most talented players, rather than only one training session per week, this NPL SAP program will see participants attending two sessions per week. All year round! It will also aim to fill an all-girl squad.
Head Murray United FC SAP coach and FFV Zone Development Officer Atila Kerestes said
“The 9-11 year old age group is the golden years of skill development. Talented players deserve the best opportunities to reach their potential and I am honoured to be bestowed the responsibility of getting these kids off to the right start.”
“I have been running SAP in Wodonga under the FFV banner for the past three years and have had 50% of my players, from the first two squads, reach state representation.”
“Exciting times are ahead for football in the region. Players now have a clearly defined pathway into the A League and it starts here at Murray United SAP.”
If you have or know of an U9, U10 or U11 child that shows true football talent, loves the game, and deserves the best opportunity to follow the best football playing and development pathway available in Australia, please contact Murray United FC.
SAP Trial dates will be held Thursday 30th October and 6th November from 5-6pm, La Trobe Soccer Complex, Wodonga.
