Fundamental-Competitative (“Bridge”) Layer:
The Fundamental-Competitive (“Bridge”) layer of The British Football Academy – the latest addition to our program – adds a new dimension to the BFA Pyramid and aims to bridge the gap between the fundamental, play/fun/game-centric sessions and the competitive, team-based Jaguars groups.
This layer is currently exclusive to children from 6-10 years old and is designed to accommodate BFA players who wish to progress from playing football-based games to experiencing football training sessions at their most basic technical, tactical and physical level. The sessions are designed, like all of BFA’s classes, with enjoyment as their primary objective. However, this layer is designed to introduce and guide the players through the process of “”learning to train”” – as opposed to the competitive layer sessions (Jaguars) which are focused on “”training to compete””. The process of learning to train itself consists of introducing the children to the aforementioned basic aspects of the game (technical, tactical and physical), as well as the mental side of the game (energy, perseverance, patience, consistency and urgency).
All children that wish to participate in the U-8 & U10 Development sessions are required to first take an informal trial. In the trial they will experience what the sessions entail as well as being assessed in regards to whether the sessions are appropriate, or if they are better suited to remain in the fundamental sessions for the sake of keeping them engaged, enthusiastic and accommodated for. This layer of the BFA Pyramid is specifically aimed to facilitate the needs of young footballers who wish to play/train at a higher level and who are keen and interested in learning more about the game and how to develop as a player.
After the trial period, the children will be involved in diverse, engaging training sessions each week and can look forward to their first experiences of training and playing regularly in a team environment, with the prospect of competing in small-sided matches and tournaments together.”