Auckland FC have announced a youth development partnership alongside Northern Region Football and WaiBOP, an initiative that's designed to nurture young talent and deepen connections with clubs and communities. 

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with such passionate and dedicated clubs in the Northern Region Football and WAIBOP Federations,” said Auckland FC Director of Football Terry McFlynn. 

“This initiative isn’t just about developing players; it’s about creating a foundation for football excellence across our communities. By investing in young athletes, we’re equipping them with technical skills and giving them the confidence, resilience, and guidance to unlock their full potential in the game."  

You can read more about the pathway here. 

Auckland FC are required through the A-League agreement to have an academy structure for their men’s and women’s teams, and have opted to create this academy through partnerships with local clubs instead of a standalone academy. That means players can remain part of their club and keep playing in LOTTO NRFL Youth Competitions, which is a great outcome. 

The first NRF clubs to be offered the opportunity are the ones with a current accredited mixed / boys Talent Development Programme, through Memorandums of Understanding with AFC for twelve months. The NRF team has worked behind the scenes  to make sure these clubs fully understood the opportunity through introductions, conversations and facilitating hui. 

Discussions on a girls pathway, with the introduction of a women’s team, will happen in 2025.There's no doubt AFC's cracking start on and off the pitch have created a real buzz for football in Auckland and Northland. NRF wants AFC to succeed and thrive, and has been working with the team to help make strong connections with clubs in our area, to help everyone connect and feel part of the team. 

Article added: Sunday 10 November 2024