- NexxtGen Football
- May 16
- 5 min read
Updated: May 18
As another grassroots football season comes to a close, the pitches across Hertfordshire and beyond fall silent—boots hung up (briefly), medals handed out, and the parents’ WhatsApp groups quietening after months of sideline buzz. But for many families, the question soon returns, often framed with pride but also uncertainty:
“My child’s been brilliant this season—they've played their socks off. Surely, they should be at a higher level! What’s next?”
It’s a question I’m asked every year, often by parents whose children have shown tremendous dedication and progress over the course of the season. And it’s an important one. Because while football at this age should be about enjoyment and development, it’s natural for ambitious players (and parents) to wonder whether a step up to a more competitive level—such as the Emerald or Premier League divisions—is the right move.
But before we look at what to do, let’s take a moment to reflect on the why.
⚽ Youth development is not a race
The football world is full of stories of early bloomers and late developers. Some children dominate at U9 but fade by U13; others struggle at U10 but go on to make academy breakthroughs at U15. The journey is not linear. The key is recognising that player development should be player-centred—focused on the long-term needs, confidence, and readiness of the child.
While promotions and accolades are great, they are secondary to confidence, resilience, skill acquisition, and—most importantly—a love for the game.
🔍 Is it the right time to step up?
A jump from a mid or lower-tier grassroots team to a top Emerald or Premier League side can be transformative—but it can also be damaging if the timing or environment isn’t right.
Here are some key considerations to help evaluate the next move:
1. Confidence vs. Competence
A player might be technically gifted, but are they emotionally ready to face tougher competition, higher expectations, and possibly reduced playing time?
Confidence is fragile at these ages. A move up should build it—not break it.
2. The standard gap
Going from Division 5 to Premier League can be a leap. Is the gap in physicality, speed of play, and tactical awareness too wide?
A gradual step up (e.g., from Division 5 to Division 2, then Premier) can be more manageable, allowing for adaptation without overwhelming the player.
3. Does the new team develop players or just collect them?
Some top-tier teams are well-structured and focused on development. Others simply sign the best players to win trophies.
Ensure your child is joining a club with clear developmental values: regular rotation, high coaching standards, and a pathway to progress.
4. Environment & enjoyment
Will the child still enjoy training, matches, and the social element of football in a more demanding setting?
A great player in the wrong environment can quickly become a disillusioned one.
🚀 When stepping up makes sense
With that said, there are certainly times when a move up is the right call. If your child is consistently dominating at their current level—technically, tactically, and physically—it may be time to challenge them further. Signs include:
Cruising through games without breaking a sweat
A visible hunger for more challenge
High levels of self-motivation and discipline
Leadership qualities and team influence
When you notice these attributes, and your child is expressing a desire to be pushed, it’s worth exploring higher-level teams. But again—do your homework. Not all Premier or Emerald clubs are created equal.
🧠 A word on mindset: “The parent-coach partnership”
Parents often want the best for their child—and that’s a good thing. But there’s a difference between supportive ambition and performance pressure. Here are a few tips to stay grounded:
Talk to your child – What do they want? Sometimes the child is content, even when parents are not.
Speak to current and prospective coaches – Ask about playing style, rotation policy, training quality, and ethos.
Avoid chasing prestige for prestige’s sake – A flashy team name or kit colour doesn’t guarantee development.
Stay humble, stay patient – Development takes time. Rushing the process can cause long-term harm.
🏗️ Alternatives to switching teams
Sometimes a change of club is the right call—but not always. Here are other powerful tools in the player development toolbox:
✅ Specialist Training
Join academies like Bows Soccer Academy, Elite Ballers, or one-on-one coaching providers. These environments can offer technical refinement, confidence building, and tailored feedback.
✅ Position Changes
A player may flourish by experimenting in different roles—perhaps moving from striker to attacking midfield or centre-back to full-back. Versatility can unlock new growth.
✅ Mentorship & goal setting
Help your child set development goals. For example: improve weak foot, increase speed, enhance decision-making. Progress is progress—even outside of promotions.
✅ Summer development plans
Don’t view summer as a ‘break’ from development. A focused off-season, built around small-group sessions, strength and conditioning, and game intelligence work can set a child up for a massive leap in September.
🧭 A path, not a ladder
Too often, parents treat grassroots football as a simple ladder: if you're good, you go up. But it's not that simple. Sometimes staying still—or even stepping sideways—can bring the biggest growth.
As a coach, I’ve seen players stagnate in top teams with no minutes, and others flourish in supportive environments where they play every week and build confidence. The true test of a coach or parent is whether they make decisions that are in the child’s best interests, not their ego.
👥 What does your player need right now?
So—what’s next?
That depends on the player, not the league.
Ask yourself (and them):
Are they thriving, or just surviving?
Are they learning, or just winning?
Are they challenged, or bored?
Do they love football more now than they did in September?
If the answers point to stagnation or unfulfilled potential—then yes, perhaps a move is due. But make it carefully, consciously, and with the long-term picture in mind.
🏁 Final thoughts
Every child’s journey is unique. Don’t compare your son or daughter to others. Compare them only to themselves last season.
As coaches, mentors, and parents, we must work together to keep football fun, progressive, and supportive. Whether a player ends up in the Premier League or just the local Sunday side, what matters most is that they leave grassroots football with:
Confidence in their abilities
A deep love for the game
A strong sense of character and discipline
And who knows? With the right development, the right environment, and a bit of patience—they might just go all the way.
But only if we don’t rush the process.
Have a great summer!
Best wishes,
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