Our programmes

A clear path for every stage of development.

Our programmes are structured around the needs of young players at different stages of their football journey.

Player development

Five stages. One connected journey.

Every programme has a clear purpose, appropriate expectations and a focus on long-term growth.

Players build their football ability alongside confidence, discipline, teamwork and understanding of the game. Training schedules, assessment dates and applicable fees are provided directly following an initial enquiry.

Young Dante players developing their football skills during training

Programme level

Youth Development

U9Age 8 to 9
U11Age 10 to 11

Young players build strong foundations in technique, coordination, confidence and understanding of the game.

Development emphasis

  • Ball familiarity
  • Movement and coordination
  • Confidence
  • Teamwork
  • Enjoyment of learning
Enquire about Youth Development
Dante junior players applying their learning in a training game

Programme level

Junior Development

U13Age 12 to 13

Players strengthen technical habits, decision making, teamwork and their understanding of the game.

Development emphasis

  • Technical development
  • Tactical awareness
  • Decision making
  • Communication
  • Responsibility
Enquire about Junior Development
Dante academy players competing for the football during an intense session

Programme level

Youth Academy

U15Age 14 to 15
U17Age 16 to 17

Players develop stronger technical, tactical, physical and personal standards for competitive football.

Development emphasis

  • Technical excellence
  • Tactical intelligence
  • Physical preparation
  • Competitive habits
  • Character and leadership
Enquire about Youth Academy
Dante players applying their development during competitive football activity

Programme level

Senior Youth / Transition

U19Age 18 to 19

Players prepare for appropriate next steps through advanced development, responsibility and competitive application.

Development emphasis

  • Advanced development
  • Game understanding
  • Physical readiness
  • Leadership
  • Progression preparation
Enquire about Senior Youth / Transition
Dante senior players working together during football development

Programme level

Professional / Senior Development

SeniorAge 20+

Senior players continue purposeful development towards appropriate competitive opportunities.

Development emphasis

  • Performance refinement
  • Tactical maturity
  • Physical conditioning
  • Professional habits
  • Appropriate exposure
Enquire about Professional / Senior Development

Our approach

How player development works

Development is continuous, purposeful and appropriate to each stage of a young player’s journey.

Age-appropriate coaching
Progressive technical learning
Tactical understanding
Continuous observation
Physical development
Character and leadership
Education and mentorship

Player development framework

Four dimensions of development

The emphasis develops progressively and appropriately through the academy pathway. Individual examples are not a guarantee of identical provision for every age group.

Technical Development

Ball mastery, Passing, First touch, Finishing, One versus one ability.

Tactical Development

Decision making, Positioning, Game understanding, Transition play, Team organisation.

Physical Development

Speed, Strength, Agility, Endurance, Injury prevention.

Character and Leadership

Discipline, Respect, Teamwork, Confidence, Responsibility.

A Dante coach speaking with young players during a training session

Education and player welfare

Development beyond football

Football development is only one part of player development. We encourage players to value education, character, communication, teamwork and leadership alongside their work on the pitch.

Clear communication with parents and guardians supports a positive environment in which young players can learn with confidence and prepare for life beyond football.

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Join the academy

Review the registration information and take the first step towards the most appropriate development level.

Start Your Registration

Have more questions about programmes and joining? View Frequently Asked Questions.