English Football League (EFL)
We all know that youth football is more than just a game—it’s a chance for our kids to shine, grow, and chase their dreams.
The English Football League (EFL) organises and governs professional football leagues in England. They don’t just oversee professional leagues; they have a whole world of exciting opportunities for youth football too! They’ve got the EFL Youth Alliance, a fierce competition for academy teams, giving young players a stage to showcase their skills and reach for the stars! It’s all about nurturing talent and providing a pathway to the first team.
The EFL Youth Development Leagues create thrilling regional competitions for younger age groups like under-18s and under-16s, laying the groundwork for future football superstars!
What is also so important to know is that the EFL places immense focus on player welfare and safeguarding, ensuring a safe and positive environment for every young footballer.
Where it began: Not to bog you down with too much history, but back in 2012, the English professional game embraced the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP), which aimed to create an academy system that would be the envy of the world. It focuses on nurturing talented Home Grown Players and giving them ample time to play, be coached, and improve their skills. Plus, they’re now big on “Player Care,” which means safeguarding and education are top priorities within the academies.
EFL Youth Development Department: the EFL Youth Development Department are like the coaches and cheerleaders for Academies. They work closely with Academies, providing players and parents with valuable guidance, assistance, and resources.
Click here to view the Youth Development Academy Parents/Carers Handbook 2022/23:
The EFL collaborates with other organisations, like the Premier League and Football Association, to make the youth development system even more cohesive.
The Academy System and Independent Assessment: There are four different categories of Academies. Categories 1 to 3 cover players from U9 to professionals, while Category 4 is about late development starting from U17.
Category 1 is the crème de la crème—the highest status an Academy can achieve.
Summary: The EFL offers exciting youth football opportunities, including the EFL Youth Alliance and Development Leagues. They prioritize player welfare and safety and collaborate with other organizations to empower young talents to thrive.
Explore the world of youth football with the EFL and support your child’s dreams!
Click here to read more about the EFL and Youth Development.
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