9 A-side

For players aged 11-12 years old as of 1st May 2024

The 9 Aside player will use this grade as the final stepping stone toward the more expansive 11 v 11 football. At this age, players become more competitive and aware of others, but retain a thirst to learn through playing. Coaches will provide them with a challenging environment that offers lots of opportunities to make decisions, learn new skills and apply them within the game. Teams play 9v9 Home and Away matches against other clubs.

Players train once during the week with the aid of age appropriate drills within the Whole of Football Plan from NZ Football.

Players will be managed into teams of 9-10 players and will remain in the same team throughout the whole season.

When & Where:

Training day and time is generally mid-week and decided by the coach. Sessions run for approximatly 60-90 mins during after school hours.

Game Days are on Saturday Mornings either at Home(Hockey Park)or away in Dannevirke or Pahiatua. 

Meet & Warmup: 10:00am

Kick Off: 10:30am

Game Length: 70 mins , (2x35min halves)

What will they need:

• All players require a pair of shin pads & pair of Football boots. Shin pads can be purchased from most sports gear outlets or from our club shop for $9. WAFC does have a large selection of loan boots donated by our playing families. Please enquire with the club if you need help obtaining a pair.
• Players will also need to purchase Royal blue football socks - available through our club shop.
  
• WAFC provides team uniforms which are allocated for the season then returned
• Drink Bottle.
• Warm clothing.

How does this happen:

9 Aside is usually coached by one of the Parents and/or older siblings. The team also requires at least one parent to manage things like Communications, Uniforms, Player of the Day certs etc and is there to basically support the coach.

If you have registered for this grade please read "Everything you need to know" under the info tab.