Developing The Game

Over the past term the committee have been considering how we can provide a more supportive, participative, developmental environment for our players. This issue has vexed both the FA and Leagues, you may have seen or heard some press articles and interviews on TV and Radio addressing the same concern.

At the end of last season the Mid Wilts Youth And Minor League also looked at the problem and the member clubs agreed to improve the balance and developmental nature of League matches through the introduction of a new rule. The rule, to ignore goal difference, was meant to limit the desire, need or motivation of a team to defeat opposition by a heavy score.

As a responsible Charter Standard Community Club, Derry Hill Utd is determined to lead this League initiative and has asked all of our coaches to adhere to a best practice that keeps all scores within 7 goals. When involved in a match where your child's team is leading by 7 goals I have asked the coaches to challenge the talents, strengths and weaknesses of their players by making changes to the way the team plays.

Our goal is not to let any team or player have an easy ride but to challenge them to experience a balanced game and above all respect the motivation and effort of their opposition.

This initiative is being implemented to ensure players are not demotivated by heavy defeats and remain in a sport which meets their emotional, social and technical aspirations.

If you have any questions about this policy please do get in touch with me.