PLAYER DEVELOPMENT POLICY

At Gornal DC, our mission is to provide a supportive and inclusive footballing environment for all players, regardless of ability. With the support of M11 Football Coaching, we aim to develop confident, capable footballers through structured training, team opportunities, and a focus on enjoyment, development, and respect for the game.

Our Promise to Players & Parents

We promise to nurture every child’s development – whether within a team or through our training sessions – helping them enjoy football, learn new skills, and grow in confidence.
We strive to ensure all children feel valued, challenged appropriately, and given the opportunity to play their part in the game.
We commit to providing safe and supportive spaces for players of all abilities to progress at their own pace.

Our Coaching Standards

All Gornal DC coaches undergo a rigorous onboarding process to ensure they are qualified, capable, and aligned with our club’s values.
Our managers are entrusted to make informed decisions on match days and at tournaments, including playing time, positioning, and tactical choices.

While we strongly support the principle of equal game time at grassroots level, we recognise that in the moment, during a match or tournament, it may not always be perfectly balanced. If concerns arise, we encourage respectful and direct conversation with the manager.

Game Time, Environment & Readiness

We believe that children develop best when playing in a team that suits their current ability and confidence level. Playing regularly in an environment where a child is consistently struggling — whether technically, physically or emotionally — may not support healthy development. It can lead to frustration, loss of confidence, and even a diminished love for the game.

In such cases, we encourage a step away from team football and into our M11 Development Centres. These sessions are designed to:

- Rebuild confidence

- Develop technical ability

- Provide structure without pressure

- Prepare children for re-entry into club football when they are truly ready

This is not a step back — it’s a step in the right direction. Every child develops at a different pace, and our priority is ensuring they’re in the best environment to thrive.