Tue, 30 Nov, -0001
The hallmark of every successful team begins at elite youth development. The AFC’s desire for the success of our teams and players and competing with the world’s best tomorrow requires a concerted investment and a clear focus for our youth today. The new programmes of AFC Youth Development will enable our Member Associations to strengthen the standards and delivery of their youth development structures.
For AFC, youth development is a core responsibility and certain principles are considered fundamental:
1. Each young player’s welfare is a priority
2. Education, on and off the pitch, takes precedence over short-term results. Tomorrow is more important than today
3. Good coaching is indispensable
4. The development of each youngster’s personality, good habits, emotional stability, commitment, physical
attributes, technical ability and game appreciation are all important
5. Between players, staff and parents, mutual respect is a must
The two main pillars of youth football:
1. GRASSROOTS
2. ELITE YOUTH
1. AFC defines the meaning of grassroots football as ‘All football which is non-professional and nonelite’. It covers football for children, youths, amateurs, veterans, those with learning or physical disabilities and the socially disadvantaged. Encouraging mass participation, stimulating greater interest in the game, providing more opportunities for social inclusion, supporting healthy lifestyles and the development of young people, both sporting and educational aspects, are highlighted as the main objectives in grassroots football.
The AFC Grassroots Philosophy's key principles are:
2. An integral part of AFC’s Vision and Mission is to improve playing standards and increase the possibility of success at the top level. The development of aspiring young talents is at the core of these objectives, and AFC recognise and support the Member Associations in their efforts to further develop their elite youth programme, including the grading of academies, in line with the criteria set by AFC.
Together, AFC and the MAs will set the benchmark for elite player development in training centres and support the clubs and their academies in nurturing the next generation of top-level professional players.
WHAT DO WE WANT?
We want talented players to have the opportunity to practice more, to play regularly with and against other promising players, and to be guided by appropriately trained coaches, in a safe and stimulating environment.
WHY DO WE NEED IT?
To help young players reach their potential and to produce the next generation of top players.
HOW DO WE DO IT?