TERM 4 2026 - GIRLS TDP PROGRAMME

Registrations are now open for the upcoming Hibiscus Bays Girls Talent Development Programme (GTDP) Term 4 intake, catering to both the U14 and U16 age groups for the 2027 season.

This intake period is mandatory for all NEW and EXISTING players looking to enter the programme or cement their position for 2027. Please note the specific birth year brackets for each age group:

• U14 Grade: Players born in 2013 and 2014
• U16 Grade: Players born in 2011 and 2012

*Existing GTDP players born in 2010 will be considered for the GTDP U16s 2027 intake as well.

Programme Schedule and Location

• Duration: 7-week block starting Tuesday, 27 October and concluding on Wednesday, 9 or Thursday, 10 December
• Days: Tuesdays and Wednesdays (or Thursdays, pending council grounds allocation)
• Time: 4:45pm to 6:15pm (U14s) | 6:30pm to 8:00pm (U16s)
• Location: Ashley Park, Long Bay

Development Philosophy and Evaluation

We will continue our development programme in line with the Hibiscus-Bays 4 Corners of Development Model.

We are introducing an element of "selection" for the upcoming tournaments (Western Springs U14s and Western Springs U17s) and also for the 2027 season. Players will be offered a spot in the programme within the age group we feel is most appropriate for their individual development.

The 4 Corners Development Model evaluates players across four key areas:

• Technical and tactical skills
• Mental and self-management attributes
• Physical capabilities
• Social and team integration

What to Expect

U14s 2026: Girls who have been involved in the 2026 U14s squad will continue training as a group to prepare for their tournament. All players are expected to commit to Term 4 to have the opportunity to retain their spot in the programme for 2027.

U16s 2026: Girls who have been involved in the 2026 U16s squad will continue training as a group and will be joined by all Women’s First Team eligible players to select the strongest possible squads for the upcoming tournaments and the 2027 intake. This integration with more senior players will give us the opportunity to make the relevant observations in order to recommend individual players’ pathways for 2027.

New Players 2026: The programme offers a deep dive into the Development level environment, where relentless effort and a positive attitude are the core drivers. Training will include plyometric exercises, Strength and Conditioning (S&C) routines, and technical/tactical practices. Players will also participate in 11v11 matches against the current squad (2026 season ). These games will be filmed for internal coaching use as an objective assessment tool.

Alternative Pathways: 

Youth Development Programme (YDP)

We recognize that every player is on a different developmental trajectory. Starting in 2027, players who miss out on initial GTDP selection will be offered a place in our newly formed Youth Development Programme. 

This team will train twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays) at Ashley Park with our development coaches, directly alongside the Girls TDP. This aligned structure allows us to monitor progress closely and offer the most improved players the opportunity to step up into the Girls TDP context throughout the season as opportunities arise. Players' invites will be sent out at the same time as the Invites for the GTDP 2027 and will be based on players' ranking at the end of the trial period.

Key Dates

• Registration Deadline: Wednesday, 30 September
• Outcome U17s Trials Deadline: Thursday, 3rd December
• Outcome U14 & U16 Trials Communicated: No later than Thursday, 17th December
• Position Acceptance for U14 & U16 GTDP 2027 Deadline: Prior to Christmas

To secure a place for your daughter in this 7-week trial block, please complete the registration form and payment via the link below by Wednesday, 30 September. Spaces are limited; therefore, early registration is highly recommended.

If you have any questions regarding the programme structure or selection process, please email: amanda@hbcafc.org.nz or communications@ecbafc.co.nz