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Archie’s story: where work rate meets recognition



This season has been a real journey for Archie — full of challenges, growth, and proud moments that reflect both his footballing ability and his character.


He began the 2024/25 campaign with Wormley Rovers Whites in Division 5 of the Mid Herts League. However, early results saw the team placed into Division 6, where the competition was more appropriate for the squad’s development stage. Archie worked hard to make his mark, scoring six goals in eleven appearances for Wormley. While there were some positive moments, it became clear over time that Wormley wasn’t quite the right fit for Archie in terms of style, structure, and environment.


With that in mind, we made the decision to return him to familiar surroundings — back to CHARS Youth U12 Blues, the club where he had previously played and developed.


It proved to be the right move.


Archie slotted straight back in, contributing not just as a striker but also showing his versatility by playing out wide and, at times, even dropping into defence when the team needed him. Despite playing deeper on multiple occasions, he still managed to score eight goals in fourteen games for CHARS — bringing his overall tally for the season to fourteen goals in twenty-five games.


"Football’s not just about talent — it’s about attitude, resilience and how you treat those around you. Archie showed all of that this season."

That’s a very respectable return, especially given the mix of positions he played, and a testament to his work rate, football intelligence, and team-first mentality.


The highlight of the season came at the CHARS Youth FC Presentation Evening, where Archie was awarded Players' Player of the Year. 🏆


This is such a special honour — not chosen by coaches or parents, but voted for by his teammates. It shows how much his peers value his contribution on and off the pitch. His positive attitude, consistent effort, and support for others clearly didn’t go unnoticed.


As a parent, I couldn't be prouder of how he has handled the ups and downs of the season — always giving 100%, never complaining, and showing maturity beyond his years.


Well done Archie — you’ve earned every bit of it. Here’s to an even bigger 2025/26 season ahead! 👏⚽️💪


Best wishes,












End of the Season – So What’s Next?

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,











NexxtGen Football Proud to Support Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2025



At NexxtGen Football, we’re passionate about more than just developing players and shaping future stars – we believe in using the power of football to make a genuine difference in the world. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to support this year’s Soccer Aid for UNICEF, taking place on Sunday 15 June at the iconic Old Trafford Stadium.


This unique and unmissable charity match brings together global legends, celebrities, and sporting icons in a star-studded showdown that raises vital funds for children across the globe. With names like Wayne Rooney, Jill Scott, Sir Mo Farah, Tyson Fury, Martin Compston, Nadia Nadim, and even Louis Tomlinson confirmed – it’s shaping up to be the biggest Soccer Aid yet.


The Soccer Aid World XI will be led by none other than Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel, who joins the coaching staff this year to add yet another legendary presence to the touchline.


⚽ Football with Purpose


Soccer Aid for UNICEF isn’t just about entertainment – it’s about protecting childhood. This year’s campaign focuses on the importance of life-saving vaccinations for children in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. Millions of children still lack access to basic healthcare and are at risk from preventable diseases like measles and polio.


UNICEF is working on the ground, delivering vaccines, supporting families, and making sure children get the care they deserve. As UNICEF UK Ambassador Sanjeev Bhaskar said after visiting clinics in Malawi:

“These children should have every chance at a healthy life… seeing first-hand how UNICEF is protecting play for every child by supporting them to grow up healthy is inspiring.”

🎟 Tickets Are Selling Fast


With some ticket categories already sold out, now’s the time to secure your seat and be part of something special. Experience the joy, emotion, and magic of Soccer Aid – while helping make a real difference to children’s lives around the world.



Together, we can protect play, promote health, and use the game we love to give children the futures they deserve.





Steve Halls - Founder of NexxtGen Football | FA & UEFA Qualified Coach | Grassroots Champion


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