Youth Football Program (U13-U18)
The Kingborough Lions United Youth program supports the development of players aged 13 to 18 as they transition from junior football into the next stages of the game. At youth level, the focus shifts toward:
- Building strong technical foundations
- Developing game understanding and decision-making
- Supporting physical, mental, and social development
- Providing clear pathways for both community and performance-focused players
Our youth program is inclusive, challenging, and supportive. It caters for players who want to enjoy football with their friends, as well as those who aspire to progress into higher-performance environments.
Who is the Program for ?
The Youth program is designed for:
- Boys and girls aged U13 to U18
- Players progressing from the Juniors program
- Players new to the club seeking structured development
- Players with community, representative, or high-performance ambitions
Teams are formed across multiple age groups and competition levels, allowing players to train and compete in environments suited to their stage of development, experience, and commitment.
Training and Matches
Training
- Two team-based training sessions per week during the season
- Sessions are delivered by accredited coaches following a consistent club-wide approach
- Training is held at Clennett’s Lightwood Park and other club facilities
- Training schedules are communicated prior to season commencement
Additional development opportunities are available for selected players through advanced training environments aligned with club pathways.
Matches
- Teams compete in Football Tasmania youth competitions
- Multiple divisions allow appropriate placement across age groups
- Matches are typically played on weekends
- Competition structures vary by age and season
The club aims to place players in environments where they are challenged, supported, and able to continue enjoying the game.
How we Support Player Development
Our youth program builds on the foundations developed at junior level and introduces a more structured approach to football development. Training environments focus on:
- Developing technical skill under pressure
- Improving decision-making and game awareness
- Understanding team play and roles
- Building confidence, resilience, and accountability
As players mature, greater emphasis is placed on:
- Consistency in training and preparation
- Taking ownership of individual development
- Applying skills in realistic game situations
Players are supported to develop at their own pace. Movement between teams and training environments is guided by the club’s technical staff and communicated clearly with players and families.
Key Details
Season timing
- Pre-season activity typically begins in Term 4 and continues in January
- Competitive season runs from March to August
- Representative and finals programs may extend beyond the regular season
Uniforms
- Club training and match kits are required
- Playing shirts are provided by the club
- Players must wear appropriate football boots, shin pads, and bring a water bottle
Wellbeing and safeguarding
Kingborough Lions United FC is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all young people. Player wellbeing is central to our youth programs, with safeguarding, injury management, and respectful behaviour expected at all times
Player Pathways
Youth football sits at the centre of the club’s development pathway.
From the Youth program, players may progress into:
Not all players follow the same pathway. The club values both participation and performance, and works with players and families to support individual goals and ambitions.
- Senior social football
- NPL Program (male pathway)
- Women’s Super League Program (female pathway)
- External representative or elite opportunities
Coaching and Support
The Youth program is overseen by our Sporting Director and delivered by a team of qualified and developing coaches.
Key features include:
- Accredited coaches supported through ongoing education
- Clear development objectives across age groups
- Strong focus on player wellbeing and injury prevention
- Transparent selection and movement processes
The club works closely with parents and players to ensure expectations are clear and communication is consistent.
Register to Play
Ready to join the Kingborough Lions United Youth program?