U11 - U12
STEP
UP
A stage where players are challenged to take greater responsibility for their game, their decisions and their development.
A stage where players are challenged to take greater responsibility for their game, their decisions and their development.
THE PROGRESS STAGE
The Progress Programme is designed for players aged 11–12 who are ready for greater challenge and responsibility within their futsal journey.
Players are encouraged to apply their technical abilities under pressure, recognise problems earlier, make more independent decisions and understand their role within the team.
Competition becomes an increasingly important part of the experience, providing players with opportunities to test themselves and apply what they have learned.
THE U11-U12 STAGE
Players begin to experience more complex situations and are challenged to use their skills and understanding together.
01 / TECHNICAL
Greater technical quality, speed of execution and confidence when challenged by opponents.
02 / INTELLIGENCE
Recognising space, pressure, transitions and opportunities earlier.
3 / CREATIVITY
Players are encouraged to create and adapt rather than relying on one fixed solution.
04 / CHARACTER
Developing confidence, resilience, communication, discipline and responsibility.
02 / THUNDERBOLTS PLAYER DEVELOPMENT
At Thunderbolts Futsal Academy, our player development is built around four connected areas. Together, they shape how we develop the player, the thinker, the creator and the person.
01 / TECHNICAL
The Player
Developing young players who become confident and comfortable with the ball, while beginning to learn how to use their technical ability effectively in the game.
Ball mastery
First touch
Passing & receiving
Ball manipulation
1v1 ability
Finishing
Decision making
Game understanding
02 / INTELLIGENCE
The Thinker
Developing young players who begin to read the game, recognise problems and make their own decisions on the court.
Scanning & awareness
Decision making
Positioning
Space recognition
Game understanding
Problem solving
Tactical awareness
Understanding transitions
03 / CREATIVITY
The Creator
Encouraging young players to express themselves, take responsibility and discover their own solutions to problems on the court.
Creativity
Imagination
1v1 expression
Improvisation
Attacking solutions
Confidence to try
Risk taking
Individual expression
04 / CHARACTER
The Person
Developing young players who become positive, disciplined and resilient individuals who contribute to their team and environment.
Confidence
Resilience
Discipline
Communication
Teamwork
Respect
Responsibility
Positive behaviour
COMPETITION
Competition can provide players with opportunities to test their skills, make decisions under pressure and experience the demands of playing against different opponents.
Opportunities to apply learning in competitive match environments where available.
Opportunities to compete, adapt and experience tournament environments where available.
Game-based events that allow players to experience different opponents and situations.
Competitive Squad
Players may have opportunities to be involved in more competitive environments based on readiness, suitability and availability.
PLAYER DEVELOPMENT
As players progress through the pathway, we expect them to take increasing ownership of their development and their contribution to the group.
01
Be open to coaching and willing to learn from mistakes.
02
Take responsibility for choices rather than waiting for constant instruction.
03
Embrace challenge while showing respect to teammates, opponents and coaches.
04
Contribute positively to the team and take ownership of behaviour.
05
Have the confidence to try, create and make individual decisions.
06
Communicate, encourage teammates and contribute to a positive environment.
Give your child the opportunity to discover futsal, build confidence and enjoy playing in a positive environment.