What is Football NSW Youth League?
Our Youth League programs are a continuation of the Spirit FC Junior Development League (JDL) programs.
The aim of Youth League is to further develop players through the NWSF pathway towards elite football environments such as our Senior squads, A-League clubs, and national teams. Selection is determined by Spirit FC leadership and coaching staff.
Spirit FC is a club that prides itself on its commitment to local players and players who started at NWSF grassroots clubs are well represented in our Youth League squads.
NWS Spirit FC holds licences to participate in:
- Football NSW Boys Youth League Two (for our mixed teams)
- Football NSW Girls Youth League One (for our women’s teams)
Age Groups and Squad Sizes
Mixed Youth League
| Age group | Maximum squad size | Match duration |
|---|---|---|
| Under 13 | 18 | Two halves of 35 minutes |
| Under 14 | 18 | Two halves of 35 minutes |
| Under 15 | 18 | Two halves of 35 minutes |
| Under 16 | 18 | Two halves of 40 minutes |
| Under 18 | 18 | Two halves of 45 minutes |
Women’s Youth League
| Age group | Maximum squad size | Match duration |
|---|---|---|
| Under 14 | 18 | Two halves of 35 minutes |
| Under 15 | 18 | Two halves of 35 minutes |
| Under 16 | 18 | Two halves of 40 minutes |
| Under 18 | 18 | Two halves of 45 minutes |
How are players selected?
Positions may initially be offered to eligible returning Youth League players and current NWSF Academy players who demonstrate the required ability.
There is also an annual Expression of Interest process for players from outside the club. Trials may be held, but are not guaranteed for any of our Youth League teams.
2027 Player Expression of Interest
How often do JDL teams train?
All Youth League squads train three times per week throughout the 40 week program, which runs from January to September.
When are matches played?
Competition matches are played from February to August (Mixed teams) or March to August (Women’s teams), and may be scheduled on either Saturday or Sunday.
NWS Spirit FC’s home matches are played at Christie Park.
Who coaches the Youth League teams?
All NWS Spirit FC Youth League coaches meet the minimum qualification requirements established by Football NSW and hold at least a B Diploma (head coaches) or C Diploma (assistant coaches). Our coaches are supported by qualified high performance staff in their delivery of training sessions.
Every coach and staff member also holds a current Working with Children Check.