Coast Academy Emerging Talent Group (ETG)

Coast Academy REGISTRATIONS OPEN FOR Emerging Talent Group (ETG) TERM 4

We’re excited to launch the Coast Academy Emerging Talent Group (ETG) + APL (Academy Premier League) for term 4 — a limited opportunity programme designed for aspirational, committed, high-intent Junior Development players born 2012-2016.

As an accredited Youth Talent Development partner with Auckland FC, our mission is to provide high-quality coaching that bridges the gap between community play and the professional pathway. The ETG is designed for JDP players who want to train more, improve faster, and prepare for the Youth Talent Development Programme (TDP) at age 13.

​​​​​​​Age Group (based on 2026 season):

U10: Born 2016 - Training session + APL Game

U11: Born 2015 - Training session + APL Game

U12: Born 2014 - APL Game only

U13: Born 2013 - APL Game only

U14: Born 2012 - APL Game only

What the Programme Offers:

  • A Third Weekly Session: High-intensity, 75-minute training sessions delivered by professional coaches (Wednesdays) for current U10 & U11 players only.
  • Advanced Curriculum: Focused on the technical and tactical skills required for the next level of the game.
  • Clear Pathway: The best possible preparation for the New Zealand Football Accredited Talent Development environment.
  • High Competitive Games through the Academy Premier League in Term 4 (Sundays) for current U10-U14 players.
  • Includes Coast Academy Training Top (Doubles as APL Match Top) 

Schedule & Details:

Start Date: Week of Wednesday 14th October 2026

Duration: 8 Weeks

ETG Training session: Wednesdays 4:30 - 5:15pm (Current U10 & U11 Players only)

APL Game Day: Sundays - Time TBC closer to the start of the competition (played in the morning) Current U10-U14 players

Cost: $260 for Current U10 & U11 Players - Wednesday training session plus Sunday APL Game each week

Cost: $200 for Current U12, U13, U14 Players - Sunday APL Game each week

Who Should Apply?

We are looking for JDP players who demonstrate a strong attitude, a desire to be challenged, and a full commitment to their development. Please note that places are strictly limited to ensure a high-quality, focused training environment for all participants. Apply ASAP before the programme fills up.

How to Get Involved:

Due to the limited nature of this programme, JDP players must apply and be approved. We want to hear about your goals, your aspirations, and why you want to be part of the Coast Academy.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact nathan@hbcafc.org.nz.

Programme Overview

Coast Academy ETG is an additional weekly training session on top of your regular Junior development squad training, providing a valuable third session each week tailored to support individual development. 

Each session is:

  • 75 minutes long​​​​​​​ in term 4

  • Delivered by professional HBCAFC coaches

  • Individual development plan supported 

  • Focused on advanced technical and tactical development. 

Training Schedule - Term 4 2026

  •  U10 (born in 2017): Wednesday 4.30-5.15pm

  •  U11 (born in 2016): Wednesday 4.30-5.15pm

  • This programme is open to selected HBCAFC Junior Development players who:

  • Demonstrate strong attitude and commitment

  • Are motivated to improve and challenge themselves

  • Want to take the next step in their football journey

Places are limited to maintain a high-challenge-point environment.

Player Pathway

The Coast Academy ETG is designed to prepare players for progression into the Youth Talent Development Programme (TDP) from age 13.

While selection into TDP is not guaranteed, this programme provides:

  • The best preparation environment

  • Exposure to advanced coaching standards

  • New Zealand Football Accredited Talent Development Programme Girl’s and Boy’s Pathway Auckland FC Partner Club

  • A clear understanding of what’s required at the next level

Programme Cost for 2027

$TBC per player
Covers training through to the end of Term 3

Coast Academy ETG Uniform Required. If selected, you will receive a

  • Exclusive Academy Jacket (Included)

  • Exclusive Academy Hoodie (Optional)

  • Exclusive Academy Shirt (Required)

  • Shorts (Team playing shorts included)

  • Socks (Team playing socks included)

Application Process

Due to limited spaces, players must apply and be approved to join.

Application Information Required:

  • Player Name

  • Parent/Caregiver Name(s)

  • Contact Details

  • Current Grade  U10 (born in 2017)  U11 (born in 2016)  U12 (born in 2015) U13 (born in 2014) U14 (born in 2013): 

  • Current Team

  • Short written response outlining:

    • Player goals and aspirations

    • Why they want to join Coast Academy ETG

    • Confirmation of commitment to attend and fully engage in the programme​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the goal of the ETG program?


Who will be coaching the sessions?


What is the weekly training schedule?


How does this fit with other football commitments?


Does the program include Futsal?


Is my child a good fit for ETG?


What is the cost, and what does it cover?


How do we apply?


Commit More. Improve More. Become More.

2026 Football Season Sign up for junior, youth, and senior and programmes for all ages and abilities today!