Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers for parents, carers and players, with the most common joining, kit and finance questions in one place.
Common questions
Open each section for the detail without having to scroll through a long old page.
Which age group is for me or my child?
Age groups are based on the player age on 31 August and generally mirror the school year. Players can sometimes play up a year with agreement between managers, parents and the player, but cannot play below their age group. Girls only teams may play down a year as a team where league rules allow.
| Age by 31 August | School year | Football age group |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Pre-School | Mini-Kickers |
| 3 | Pre-School | Mini-Kickers |
| 4 | Reception | KickStarters |
| 5 | Year 1 | Development Squad |
| 6 | Year 2 | Under 7 Teams |
| 7 | Year 3 | Under 8 Teams |
| 8 | Year 4 | Under 9 Teams |
| 9 | Year 5 | Under 10 Teams |
| 10 | Year 6 | Under 11 Teams |
| 11 | Year 7 | Under 12 Teams |
| 12 | Year 8 | Under 13 Teams |
| 13 | Year 9 | Under 14 Teams |
| 14 | Year 10 | Under 15 Teams |
| 15 | Year 11 | Under 16 Teams |
| 16 | Year 12 | U17-U21 or Open Age |
| 17 | Year 13 | U18-U21 or Open Age |
| 18 | N/A | U19-U21 or Open Age |
| 35-44 | N/A | Open Age or Vets |
| 45+ | N/A | Open Age, Vets or Supervets |
Do you have a free trial?
A few free sessions can usually be arranged so potential new members can settle in before joining fully.
Do you offer a sibling discount?
If a new member has a sibling already paying the train and play fee, subsequent siblings are charged at the train only rate. Let the club know before joining so this can be applied going forward.
How do we join?
Use the registration page to choose the correct FA registration route for your team type.
When do we get a training kit?
Youth team members receive a club training kit every two years. Training kit is normally handed out after the first monthly subscription is paid, or ordered if stock is not available.
Do we get a match kit?
Members who are not train only need a match kit to play. Match kits are funded through team sponsorship and that money is allocated to the sponsored team.
What if training kit is lost, damaged or outgrown?
The club supplies a new youth training kit every two years. Replacement kit outside that cycle can be purchased through the club shop.
Why has my child been offered a train only place?
Team sizes are governed by FA formats and league squad limits. Train only places help players keep developing while waiting for a match squad space or a new team opportunity.
I am struggling financially, can the club help?
The club operates a hardship policy so football is not affected by financial trouble. Please contact the club in confidence to discuss support.
