Juniors Football Program (U5-U12)

The Kingborough Lions United Juniors program provides a fun, safe, and supportive introduction to football for children aged 5 to 12. Our focus at junior level is simple:

  • Build a love for the game
  • Develop fundamental football skills
  • Create positive team experiences
  • Encourage participation at all ability levels

We believe that enjoyment and confidence are the foundations of long-term development. Whether a child is new to football or already passionate about the game, our junior program offers an environment where they can learn, grow, and belong.

Contact Program Manager

Who this Program is for

The Juniors program is designed for:

  • Boys and girls aged U5 to U12
  • New players trying football for the first time
  • Returning players continuing their development
  • Families looking for a community-focused club environment

No prior football experience is required. Teams are formed to suit age, ability, and friendship groups where possible, with the goal of creating positive and enjoyable experiences for every player.

Commitment expectations are age-appropriate, with one team training session per week during the season, clinics in school holidays and additional extension activities available for juniors all year round (during school terms).

Training and Matches

Training

  • One team-based training session per week during the regular season
  • Training is held at Clennett’s Lightwood Park and surrounding club grounds
  • No training sessions are held during school holidays

Optional additional development opportunities are available through:

  • Discovery Program (ages 5–8)
  • Skills Acquisition Program (SAP) (ages 9–12)
    Additional fees apply for these optional programs.

Matches

  • Teams compete in the Central Region Junior Football Association (CRJFA)
  • Multiple competition tiers allow players to be placed at an appropriate level
  • Games are typically played on weekends
  • Teams are usually announced in mid-March
  • Tournaments (Launceston, Devonport and Hobart) provide further match opportunities for keen players

The club enters a large number of junior teams each season, allowing flexibility in team placement and player development opportunities

How we Support Player Development

Our junior program is built around age-appropriate development that prioritises enjoyment, confidence, and learning. At younger ages, sessions focus on:

  • Fun, movement, and ball familiarity
  • Learning through games and play
  • Building confidence and enjoyment

As players get older, training gradually introduces:

  • Core football skills such as dribbling, passing, and shooting
  • Decision-making through small-sided games
  • Team play and game understanding

Players are not locked into positions, and there is no pressure to specialise early. Our coaches focus on helping each child develop at their own pace in a positive and supportive environment.

This approach helps players build strong foundations and prepares them for the transition into youth football.

Player Development Pathway

Junior football is the first stage of the Kingborough Lions United development pathway. Players progress through:

  • Juniors (U5–U12)
  • Youth (U13–U18)
  • Senior football pathways, including social football and high-performance programs

At junior level, the emphasis is on skill development, enjoyment, and confidence rather than results. This approach supports long-term player retention and prepares players for the transition into youth football.

Coaching and Support

The Juniors program is overseen by the Club’s Junior Technical Director and supported by a committed group of accredited coaches and volunteers.

Key features include:

  • Age-appropriate coaching aligned to the Clubs Football development principles
  • Coach education and support provided by the club
  • Clear team placement processes overseen by the Junior Technical Director
  • Strong focus on player wellbeing and safeguarding

Parent involvement is welcomed and encouraged through coaching, team management, and club volunteering roles.

Key Details

Season timing

  • Registrations open mid-February
  • Training commences late March
  • Season concludes in August, with optional tournaments continuing into September
  • Junior development programs run all year round
  • Holiday Clinics are run in every school holiday break

Uniforms

  • Club training kit is required for training
  • Playing shirts are provided by the club for matches
  • Players must wear football boots, shin pads, and bring a water bottle

Safeguarding

Kingborough Lions United FC is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all children. The club follows Child and Youth Safe Standards and has designated Member Protection Officers.