Plymouth Argyle Youth Academy Parents and Players Handbook
Pride Willingness to learn Passion Attitude Application Determination Desire Team Work Positive attitude Feedback Concentration Communication Focused Learning from mistakes
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.
Academy Staff Structure Board of Directors Academy Manager Academy Secretary Designated Head of Education Sports Science & Medicine Coordinator Head of Recruitment Head of Coaching Lead Sports Scientist Senior Physiotherapist Academy Doctor Recruitment Officer Foundation Phase Lead Coach 5-11 Youth Development Lead Coach 12-16 Professional Development Lead Coach 17-21 Match Analysis Strength and Conditioning Ivybridge Strength and Conditioning Programme Marjons Sports Science Link Sports Psychologist Physiotherapist COE U9-U16 Medical Provision Local Plymouth/Devon Scouts: Development Centres 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 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 Coaches U16-U21 Professional Development Coach Professional Development Phase Goalkeeping Coach U9-U21 Position Specific Coaches
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: Fundamentals ABC s Master the ball Deliberate play Creativity Problem solving Playing in a variety positions Enjoyable & fun Outcomes: Movement patterns Technically efficient Game understanding Expressive players Creative thinkers Experience and appreciation of different positions Play without fear
Coaching Syllabus U5-U8 6 Week Rotational Programme: Coaching topics may be revisited if necessary Dribbling Turning Protecting the ball
Coaching Syllabus U9-U11 6 Week Rotational Programme: Coaching topics may be revisited if necessary Passing & Receiving Movement Dribbling & Running with the ball Attacking Protecting the ball & Turning Defending
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: Pitch size transition Positional understanding Transitions Challenging individuals Strength and conditioning Tactical understanding Outcomes: 9v9 to 11v11 Spatial awareness & principles of play Anticipate & react Decision-making Athletic players Playing against different formations
Coaching Syllabus U12-U16 6 Week Rotational Programme: Coaching topics may be revisited if necessary Passing & Receiving Movement Running with the ball & dribbling Principles of Attacking Transitions Principles of Defending
Session Routine U12 - U16 Game-related practices will be used wherever possible to facilitate transfer of knowledge and skills. More positionspecific 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: Variety of formations Team Principles, roles & responsibilities Technical Excellence Preparation for adult football Athletic Systems Outcomes: Understanding systems of play Tactically mature professional manner Improved performance Cope with success & failure on & off pitch 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 8.45 Core (Gym) Depending on Midweek Game 10.00 Injury Prevention 10.30 Training (Football) Core (Gym) Depending on Midweek Game Injury Prevention Training (Football) Core(Gym)/ Weights/ Fitness Conditioning/ Recovery Rest Injury Prevention Training (Football) Light Core (Gym) Training (Football) G A M E D A Y O F F 12.00 Lunch Lunch C O L Lunch Lunch 1.30 Gym Training Gym Training L Training (Upper (Football) (Lower (Football) E (Football) C Body) Body) G O 3.30 Additional Additional E Additional L Work Work Work L E G 5.00 Rest Rest Rest E Rest Rest
Coaching Syllabus U17 - U21 2 Week Rotational Programme: Coaching topics may be revisited if necessary Passing & Receiving Crossing and Shooting Possession and Transitions Attacking & Defending Movement & Combination Play 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: Foot work Handling Positioning Appreciation of defenders position Feedback and observations Outcomes: Master the ball Safe Hands Understanding position in relation to the goal Experience and appreciation of defensive positions Learning from successes and mistakes
Goalkeeping Coaching Syllabus 9-21 Understanding Crosses and High Balls Shot Stopping Distribution Positioning and Footwork Diving Saves
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 U7 U9 U10 U11 Age U12 U13 Format Ball Size Pitch Size (yards) 5 v 5 3 30x20 to 40x30 12 x 6 7 v 7 4 50x30 to 60x40 12 x 6 Maximum Goal Size (feet) 9v9 4 70x40 to 80x50 16 x 7 to 21 x 7 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 1 st year apprentices regular start in their position in Youth team. 1 st & 2 nd year apprentices to play in U21 or Reserve Team fixtures U21 or Reserve Team to - play in 1 st 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 cpo@pafc.co.uk or 07866 701180 mobile, in emergencies only Further advice can be obtained from: The Football League: Devon County F.A.: Football Association / NSPCC 24 hour helpline: Online at www.thefa.com/goal F.A. Safeguarding Children Team: Ann HUSSEY: Tel: 01772 325811 Dave KEAST: Tel: 01626 325913 Tel: 0808 800 5000 Tel: 0207 745 4787
Staff Contact Details Kevin Hodges Academy Manager & Professional Development Phase Lead Coach Phone: 07824 357441 Email: Kevin.Hodges@pafc.co.uk Gary Owers Head of Coaching & Professional Development Phase Coach Phone: 07736 625523 Email: Gary.Owers@pafc.co.uk Ian Stonebridge Youth Development Phase Lead Coach 12-16 & Lead Sport Scientist Phone: 07957 396438 Email: Ian.Stonebridge@pafc.co.uk Phil Stokes Foundation Phase Lead Coach 5-11 Phone: 07972 878126 Email: phil.stokes@pafc.co.uk