Today you will be playing FOOTBALL!

Objectives – The objectives of the "Little Dribblers Football Club" are to provide an environment where kids can participate, learn and enjoy football. During each 10 week season we will be helping them to learn some of the very basic rules and techniques of the game but the main thing is that the players enjoy themselves in a team environment and have the opportunity to develop at a pace they are comfortable with. The main things they will learn are - What is a team? What are the uniforms for? What are Shinpads? Why is there only one ball and how do I get it? What are the goals and lines for? Why does that man/lady keep blowing a whistle? What happens when I score a goal? What happens when the ball goes over the lines? “It’s Saturday/Sunday, I’m playing football today” and of course "Is it Saturday/Sunday yet"?

Expectations - The only expectation placed on all players and spectators attending is that they want to be there. Participation of any form in the game itself is a bonus but only if the player wishes to participate. Don't expect too much of your Little Dribbler and neither of you will be disappointed.

Game Duration – The game will be played in 2 x 12 minute halves. (6/7 grade is 15 minute halves) At the end of each half there is a short break and teams turn round and play in the opposite direction.

Kick Off - The kick off is used to start the game and also to restart the game after a goal has been scored. The Kick Off takes place in the centre of the field at “half way” which is the line in the middle of the field.

Throw In – When the ball goes over the sideline a throw in is used to restart play. A throw in is NOT taken by the team that last touched the ball before it went over the sideline. The whole ball must be over the sideline for it to be out.

Goal Kick - When the ball goes over the goal line, which is the line that the goal is in the middle of, a goal kick is awarded to the defending team if the attacking team last touched the ball before it went over the goal line. The whole ball must be over the goal line for it to be out. A goal kick is taken from near the goal and inside the goal box.

Corner Kick - When the ball goes over the goal line, which is the line that the goal is in the middle of, a corner kick is awarded to the attacking team if the defending team last touched the ball before it went over the goal line. The whole ball must be over the goal line for it to be out. A corner is taken from the corner of the field. (Corners will be introduced to the game at a later stage)

Goal – A goal is scored when the whole ball has crossed the line between the two goal posts and under the crossbar. After a goal is scored and the celebrations have ended, the game is restarted with a kick off.

Free Kick – A Free Kick is awarded when an infringement of the rules takes place. A Free Kick is taken from the spot that the infringement occurred and is awarded against the team that infringed.

Team Manager – Each team should have a volunteer to be team manager. The Manager is the point of contact for players in the team. If you are not going to make it to a game please let them know. The Team Manager can find someone to Referee on match day.

Referees – Thanks for volunteering to referee. Please ensure that you blow the whistle loud and tell the players what is happening. You are also here to help the players understand and know the rules.

Spectators – Thanks for coming and supporting. Please make sure you support everyone including the ref. Your behaviour will leave a lasting impression on players and other spectators and may affect your player’s attitude to sport in the future so be nice. Encouraging competitiveness is fine but we want the players to want to play and learn without to much pressure.

Practice – The best practice that you can give these players is one on one at home or at the park with a parent. During the season we will provide information that can be used to help you teach some basic techniques used in the game of football.

What to bring to a game – a Player is the most important item when coming to Nursery Grade Football. Please ensure they have the best opportunity to participate fully by feeding them before the game. A drink is important before, during and after the game. Boots should fit comfortably and be safe to wear on and off the field, preferably a moulded sole boot. Shin Pads will be compulsory and these should also fit comfortably and are worn inside the sock. All necessary equipment is available at the park.

NO DOGS PLEASE!     NO DOGS PLEASE!     NO DOGS PLEASE!     NO DOGS PLEASE!

Registrations – It’s never too late to join so tell your friends!

Cancellations – Cancellations are determined on the day by 8:30 at the latest. Cancellation info is made available on the website, by email and on the radio (1035am NewstalkZB )

Online Information – Information, Teams Lists, Ground and Fixtures can be found in this website.
For any other information you can call Tony Morrison on 5866006