Northern Rovers is an NZ Football accredited provider and an Auckland FC Player Development Pathway Partner. From your first year of youth football to the top of your age group, there's a team here for you. Youth football runs from U13 to U17, with boys, girls and mixed teams across three tiers and coaching on and off the pitch.

One programme, three tiers

Every youth player sits in one of three tiers. Players can move between tiers from year to year as they develop, so everyone trains and plays at the right level of challenge.

TDP

Our top tier, for players performing at the top of their age group. Trains three times a week, competes in the NRFL youth leagues and has the full off-field programme.

Championship

A step up in pace and physical demand for players ready to push on. Trains twice a week with off-field sessions by invitation.

Conference / Community

A development-focused environment that builds technical and tactical foundations.

2027 age groups

What a week typically looks like

Beyond the pitch

Player development doesn't stop at the final whistle. TDP players are supported by six off-field programmes.

• Strength and conditioning. Age-appropriate physical preparation to build robustness and reduce injury risk.
• Player welfare and education. Support on and off the pitch, including pathway and study guidance.
• Video and performance analysis. Match and training footage used in coaching feedback.
• Nutrition and recovery. Practical advice on fuelling and recovering for training and matches.
• Goalkeeping. Specialist goalkeeper coaching across all three tiers.
• Leadership and life skills. Building character, communication and leadership alongside football.