Football Victoria has taken a major leap forward in youth development with the confirmation of its new academy program, set to kick off in the 2025 season.
The comprehensive initiative will cater to both male and female players from Under 14s through to Under 17s, while also incorporating existing women’s Under 20 and NPLW squads.
A talented group of young players has already joined the program following successful trials that commenced in October.
The academy, based at The Home of The Matildas, will combine expert coaching with state-of-the-art facilities to develop both technical skills and high-performance mindsets in its young prospects.
FV’s Head of Youth Development Steve Mautone praised the initiative as a “fantastic development” for Victorian football.
“The academy will become the players’ club, providing them with the opportunity to compete in the junior boys and girls NPL season in 2025. This provides a clear pathway for talented young players to progress. We are incredibly excited about the potential of the 2025 program,” Mautone said via official press release.
The academy has already hit the ground running, with promising youngsters selected through trials conducted since October. These players will form the inaugural squads competing in next year’s NPL competitions.
Beyond match play, the program will emphasise technical development and high-performance habits, with participants receiving specialist coaching at the purpose-built Matildas facility.
The academy forms a crucial piece in Football Victoria’s Elite Pathways program, working alongside established talent identification initiatives like TIDC and SAP.
This structured approach aims to smooth the traditionally bumpy road from grassroots to elite football. For ambitious young players, the academy offers multiple pathways to professional football.
This academy will hopefully give graduates the necessary pathways towards progressing through A-League and NPL ranks, national careers and even securing overseas contracts.
Football Victoria will launch dedicated social media channels to showcase the academy’s talent and keep supporters updated on player development and events throughout the season.
This academy is the starting for a more streamlined approach to development in one of Australia’s most dedicated footballing states.
To young footballers and their supporting communities, this academy could relieve the pressure from Grassroots and NPL clubs in supporting the growth of the state’s youth.
The academy could also allow for Victoria to further help solidify a national style of play, though one must also be careful not to disrupt the rich tapestry of historical footballing culture.
Overall, this news be watched closely by all industry makers involved, hopeful it can produce future generations of talented players.
