2026 Squirts Term 1 Information and registration

Squirts Development Program

Welcome to the Squirts Program, our introductory football program designed to help young players fall in love with the game while developing essential movement and ball skills.

The Squirts Program is built around a clear, age-appropriate development structure, ensuring every child is learning in the right environment for their stage of growth. Players are grouped into three development levels, not just by age but by confidence and ability, allowing them to progress at their own pace.

Our coaches work closely with players and parents to ensure each child is supported, challenged, and enjoying their football journey.

Start Date: Saturday 7th February (8 weeks total)
Times: 8:00am – 9:00am 1st Slot
    9:15am – 10:15am 2nd Slot
Ages: U3-U5
Location: Albert Bishop Park

Program Levels

Level 1 - (U3)

Goal: Become familiar with football, develop basic motor skills, and enjoy playing with a ball.
At this stage, sessions focus on helping children feel comfortable in a football environment while building confidence and coordination.

Key focus areas:
 • Body awareness and balance
 • Ball familiarity and basic dribbling
 • Directional play and movement
 • Social interaction and participation

What players will learn:
 • Listening and responding to the coach and whistle
 • Running, stopping, and moving safely with the ball
 • Dribbling into open space
 • Kicking into large goals
 • Introduction to 1v1 play and playing alongside others
Sessions are fun, energetic, and designed to build confidence and enjoyment.

Level 2 – (U4)

Goal: Develop deliberate ball control and introduce early decision-making and teamwork.
As players grow, sessions introduce more football-specific learning while maintaining a fun, game-based environment.

Key focus areas:
 • Control and speed
 • Using different parts of the foot
 • Vision and awareness
 • Introduction to teamwork

What players will learn:
 • Using small and big touches while dribbling
 • Stopping the ball while moving
 • Dribbling with head up through gates and obstacles
 • Understanding passing intent and simple combinations
 • Attacking a specific goal

This level helps players gain confidence on the ball and begin understanding simple football concepts.

Level 3 – (U5)

Goal: Refine ball mastery and prepare players for the transition into MiniRoos football.

This level is designed for older or more confident players who are ready for more structured game play.

Key focus areas:
 • Advanced ball mastery
 • Accuracy and control
 • Basic defending principles
 • Game readiness

What players will learn:
 • Turning and dribbling with both feet
 • Accurate striking for goal
 • Moving and competing with an opponent
 • Following multi-step instructions
 • Playing small-sided games (2v2 or 3v3)

Players finish this level confident, capable, and ready to progress into the MiniRoos football program.

If you have any questions, please email us at squirts@virginiaunitedfc.com.au