Lydney Town AFC Football Club, based in Lydney, New Zealand, is a proud FA Accredited Club that provides a comprehensive Player Pathway for over 350 children. The club consists of three distinct pathways: Lydney Town AFC Youth Lions for children aged u5s to u6s, Lydney Town AFC Youth for children aged u7s to u16s, and Lydney Town AFC for players aged u18s to seniors.
The club is dedicated to providing FA qualified coaches for all age groups, from the youngest Lions (u5s – u6s) to the transition phase into senior football. The sessions for the Lions are even offered free of charge, allowing children to explore and develop their skills. Lydney Town AFC Youth creates more opportunities for children to play football in approved FA leagues and competitions, with at least one team in every age group recognised by the FA (u7-u18s). Through their affiliation with Lydney Town AFC, players in the youth programme are prepared for adult football, maximising the chances of transitioning directly into the senior squads for both the men's and ladies' teams.
Registrations for the upcoming 2023/24 season are currently open, and there are specific registration forms for each age group to ensure accurate completion. The club also offers tasters and trials for certain age groups, giving children the chance to experience the sport and potentially join the club.
Lydney Town AFC Youth strives to provide football opportunities to children of all ages and abilities. They follow the Player Pathway, delivering age-appropriate training in a safe environment, ensuring long-term development. The club's ultimate goal is to help local children reach their full potential and play at the highest level possible.
The club structure includes Lydney Town Lions, catering to children aged u5s to u6s. This provides a free and enjoyable environment for children to begin their football journey while developing important movement and social skills. Lydney Town AFC Youth, accredited with three stars, offers the complete player pathway, preparing young players for the transition to Lydney Town AFC and the open game. The pathway for the under 18s coincides with the transition into senior football and offers opportunities to sign for Lydney Town AFC.
As for the senior teams, Lydney Town AFC competes in the Hellenic premier league, boasting a total of four teams and providing an excellent pathway to play at a high standard of football.
The club also offers articles and information on their social media platforms, with updates on the latest news, their kit partnership with Kitlocker, and resources for parents, including how to register a FAN (FA Number) and update their child's photo with their FA FAN Account.
Lydney Town AFC Football Club aims to pave the way for the next generation of footballers and encourages participation in the sport. They also have specific programmes tailored for girls' football and various formats of the game, including mini soccer for under 7s to under 10s, 9-a-side football for u11s to u12s, and 11-a-side football for the purist form of the game.