Academy Expectations
Players' Expectations
From the moment players, parents and coaching staff are affiliate the Stenhousemuir Football Club Children's Academy there are expected not only to represent the Club on pitch, but also how to respect and represent the Club with every aspect of their life.
Players also need more than just talent to succeed at the Academy they require commitment, discipline and an unshakable determination to succeed. In addition, Academy players are expected to conduct themselves The 'Stenny Way' and possess the 5 psychological E's of performance to ensure a positive 'can do' attitude and desire to continually progress and develop.
High personal standards are required if players are to progress as both football players and individuals. Discipline in behaviour, timekeeping, dress code, practice schedule, taking instruction and healthy lifestyle are pivotal in the overall development of our Children's Academy players.
Both on and off the field of play it is expected that the players will always represent the Club in the correct manner, showing respect to officials, opponents, supporters and hosts/guests at all times. Players must always concentrate and listen to their coaches.
Training at the Stenhousemuir Football Club Children's Academy is a demanding experience with each player's progress closely monitored at every step of the process.
Meeting the demands of the Academy has its rewards and whether youngsters progress to the Youth Development Programme or not, it is an experience which will be of benefit for the rest of their lives.
Practice Culture
The Children's Academy encourages all young players to spend additional practice time practising their skills and techniques. To drive this culture forward from a young age, players at the Development Squads are given weekly homework tasks which are related to the theme of each individual coaching session. As players continue their development through the Academy, players at our performance 11s and 12s will receive more detailed homework tasks which will enables the most dedicated of individuals to challenge themselves on a 'week-to-week' basis out-with the designated 3 coaching sessions per week.
Playing Policy
In the general interest of the Academy's playing policy, parents and coaches please note the following procedures:
- Team selection is subject to the discretion of the coaches on match days. Those players who are selected as [rolling] substitutes should not see this as a demotion or as an indication that they are not as 'capable' as those who start the match.
- Within the Children's Academy, players will experience a number of playing positions in order to improve their all round play and knowledge of the game. Only when a player's physical and mental characteristics develop fully can their preferred position can be accurately identified.
- Coaches must avoid utilising the same players always starting the game as substitute, and thereby make every effort to balance the team.
- Coaches must remember that all actions, gestures and mannerisms are scrutinised by players, parents and fellow colleagues. Therefore, coaches are encouraged to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner and do their utmost to avoid situations of escalating conflict.
If there are any problems, questions and/or concerns regarding the above procedures please contact Aidan Robertson, Head of Children's Academy direct.