Coaches - What to do next

Next season make sure your club is prepared for issues that arise around age restrictions.

Have a clear policy that outlines a pathway catering for differing levels of ability and maturity and a flexible competition structure to better match participants. If your State Sports Organisation has an existing policy you may find it useful to adopt or adapt their document to meet your club’s needs. For example:

• allow a double age group progression i.e. U10, U12, U14, U16 and, where numbers allow, organise divisions (based on ability) within age groups
• provide talented athletes with opportunities to play in age groups commensurate with their abilities (see above)
• allow – if appropriate - smaller or less talented athletes to play with younger players – this may be on the recommendation of a doctor or specialist
• create flexible age groupings in regional areas where lack of numbers would otherwise prevent young people from playing. Remember, however, that player safety is always paramount, hence there should generally be no more than 3 years difference in ages and/or think about how you will deal with any difference in physical attributes
• consider permitting girls to play with boys in age groups where physical size, strength and ability are similar
• explain the reasons for any changes to your club’s competition structure to parents, coaches and players.