Why Men's football?
There is a perception that Academy Football is the only way into the professional game. This is getting proved wrong more and more as the modern game progresses with Jamie Vardy as the obvious example. Non-League football gives young players a chance to find their current standard and progress their careers through the leagues up to professional level.
What is the Football Pyramid?
The pyramid works on a 'level' basis with The Premier League being Level 1, Championship Level 2 and so on. Levels 1-5 are single divisions with teams spread all over the country, level 6 have 2 divisions (North and South) with level 7 downwards having multiple parallel divisions across the country. The reason for this is to make games more local for lower down teams, so that travelling to away games isn't such a hassle. We are working with level 10 teams and higher, as this is the standard we have recognised as a good level for aspiring players, but of course, would not hold back any player capable of playing higher.
How Does Men's Football Differ to Academy Football?
One thing that Academy Football doesn't give you is the experience of playing first team football, week in week out, against older and stronger players. Once a young player is used to the physical demands of first team football, it makes the climb up the leagues a lot easier, as you'll find the standard does not differ vastly. Playing Non-League football has plenty of positives, the chance to play in big stadiums for cup finals, having 50+ fans come watch home games and as you move up the leagues, the potential to play against ex-professionals that are on their way down. Just a few positives that make playing senior football worthwhile.
Will I Play in the First Team?
First team football is the aim for any footballer, but young players shouldn't rule out playing development team football at a high level especially if they are new to the senior football stage. It's also a good opportunity to train in and around the first team and test your ability. You won't lose the chance to play against stronger and more experienced players as development teams are also used to help injured players get back to full fitness.
Will I Get Payed?
More and more money is being pumped into football, and at even lower levels than before. Roughly speaking, levels 10 and 9 will pay first team players a small amount per game, levels 8 and upwards will start to pay first team players per week. There will be exceptions to these sometimes but roughly speaking, if you work hard, there is a real chance of you earning some good money.
Do Men's Teams Want Young Players?
Every club wants a bright young player. You might not realise it just yet but all clubs, whatever level, are looking for young exciting players.It's not just for the managers and coaches, but the fans love it too. As a young player you don't have to do anything spectacular to win the fans over, they want you to be successful as a young player as much as you do! Doing all the basics right will be more than enough for you to become a fan favourite.
Can I Still Get Scouted By Pro Clubs?
Absolutely yes. It doesn't take much for people to start noticing you, some good performances alongside having age on your side, will get interest from teams in leagues above and potentially professional clubs. Your name can get round extremely quickly with match reports in local papers and the massive boom in social media. All it takes is one fan to write something positive and your name gets round very quickly.
Sounds Good, How Do I Register?
There is
no commitment made by signing up using our 'register' button, it just means you will receive information about our trial days.
If you would like some more information before registering then please contact us directly:
nxtstepprogramme@gmail.com.
