Academy and Tdp

Academy & Talent Development Pathways

Player Progression at Hibiscus Coast AFC

Hibiscus Coast AFC is a licensed New Zealand Football Talent Development Programme (TDP) club, delivering a nationally aligned approach to youth player development for girls and boys from age 10 onwards.

Our Academy and TDP programmes form part of the club’s Whole of Football approach and provide a clear, structured pathway to support players as they progress through different stages of their football journey — in environments that are challenging, enjoyable, and development-focused.

Our Player Pathway

Players may move through the following development environments as they grow:

Mixed Junior Academy (Ages 10–12)

An introduction to structured development, focusing on strong football foundations, enjoyment, and confidence. 

Girls’ Pre-TDP (Ages 12–13)

A transition environment designed to prepare girls for the TDP stage. Focus is on learning habits, confidence, and readiness for more structured training. Players remain connected to their teams while accessing additional learning opportunities.

Girls’ Talent Development Programme (TDP) (Ages 13+)

A licensed programme delivering a challenging and motivating environment aligned with NZ Football’s national framework, supporting players through key youth development stages.

Boys’ Talent Development Programme (TDP) (Ages 13+)

A structured, development-focused environment aligned with NZ Football guidelines, supporting boys as they progress through the youth phase of their football journey.

Pathway Beyond Youth Football

Hibiscus Coast AFC’s pathways extend into senior football, giving players a route to continue their development within the club:

• Women’s Reserves and Women’s Premier teams

• Men’s Reserves and Men’s Premier teams

Progression into senior football is based on a player’s development, readiness, commitment, and enjoyment of the game. Not all players will follow the same pathway, and that is okay — our focus remains on supporting players to stay involved in football in ways that suit them.

This ensures players can continue their football journey within the Hibiscus Coast AFC community, with opportunities to develop, contribute, and enjoy the game at a senior level.

Progression & Accreditation

Movement between programmes is flexible, based on a player’s attitude, effort, development, and well-being.

TDP accreditation ensures:

• A consistent, development-led training framework

• Long-term player development remains the priority

• Pathways remain stable and focused on learning rather than competition outcomes

Our Commitment

Across all stages, Hibiscus Coast AFC is committed to:

• Providing positive, inclusive, and supportive environments

• Offering clear pathways for girls and boys, from junior to senior football

• Ensuring players can learn, enjoy football, and feel part of the Coast community at every stage of their journey ?