Inclusivity & Player Development

Our Commitment to Inclusivity

Salthill Devon FC is committed to being an inclusive club that welcomes players of all backgrounds, abilities, and levels. We strive to provide a positive and supportive environment where every member of our community feels valued and has the opportunity to participate in football. Our club fosters a culture of respect, fairness, and equal opportunity, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport we love. This policy applies equally across male and female coaching, with no segregation in opportunities. We fully support inclusivity, recognising that some of our most progressed girls have benefitted from experiences playing in boys’ matches – always on the basis of player choice and if they wish to take part.

Our Philosophy on Success and Development

At Salthill Devon FC, we aim to be a successful club, both in terms of team achievements and individual player development. We recognize that success is built on strong player pathways, structured coaching, and competitive team environments. While we strive for excellence, we also believe in ensuring that every player is given the opportunity to develop at the level that best suits their current ability and potential.

Player Placement and Progression

To support both individual and team success, we follow a structured approach to player placement:

• Players will be assigned to teams that best align with their skill level, commitment, and development stage.
• Not every player will play in the highest-ranked team, but every player will be placed in an environment that maximizes their opportunity to improve, compete, and enjoy the game.
• Every player will always have the opportunity to move up or down within their age group based on their development, commitment, and attitude. This may also include girls playing in boys’ teams where appropriate and if they wish, ensuring full inclusivity and opportunity.
• Players who demonstrate clear progress—through their willingness to learn, positive attitude, and consistent effort—may also have the chance to play up an age level when appropriate. This ensures that all players are encouraged to challenge themselves in a way that best supports their long-term growth.

Squad Structure for U12 (9v9 Football)

• U12 will follow the 9v9 format with a group size of 30 players.
• Players will be organised into two squads of 14 genuine players from the age group (Squad A and Squad B), but all players will train together as one group.
• Squads can be supplemented by selected U11 players at the manager’s discretion. This may also include girls from U11 or U12 playing in boys’ teams, if appropriate and if they wish, to support development opportunities.
• Game time will be fair but not equal, based on:
  • Level of commitment to training
  • Attitude
  • Ability
• On weekends without fixtures, teams will continue to train to maintain consistency and development.
• Squads should not become over-dependent on players from the age group below.
• Each Premier Division squad will be supported by a management team of six to ensure proper coaching and player support.

Squad Structure for U13–U18 (11v11 Football)

• Each squad will be based around 16 genuine players from the correct age group.
• Up to 4 players from the age group below may be added to supplement numbers, ensuring more teams, more playing opportunities, and more game time. This may also include girls playing in boys’ teams, if appropriate and if they wish, supporting inclusivity and progression opportunities.
• Match day squads will consist of 16 players, selected from a total training squad of 20.
• Game time will be fair but not equal, based on a player’s:
  • Level of commitment to training
  • Attitude
  • Ability
• On weekends without fixtures, teams will continue to train to maintain consistency and development.
• Squads should not become over-dependent on players from the age group below.
• Each squad will be managed by a team of three coaches/mentors, ensuring adequate support for players on and off the pitch.
• Note: The U13 group should be kept as large as possible to maximise participation and provide a strong foundation for player development at older age groups.

Balancing Competition and Enjoyment

We recognise that football should be both competitive and enjoyable. Our goal is to provide a structured, challenging, and supportive environment where players can push themselves to be the best they can be while maintaining a love for the game. Whether a player is striving for elite-level competition or playing for the enjoyment of the sport, Salthill Devon FC will support them in their football journey.

Supporting Development at Every Level

Our coaching philosophy is cantered around long-term player development, ensuring that every individual receives:

• High-quality coaching tailored to their level.
• Opportunities for skill improvement, tactical understanding, and physical development.
• A clear pathway to progress within the club, whether aiming for the highest competitive level or playing socially.

Commitment to Community and Growth

As a community-focused club, we aim to provide football opportunities for everyone while maintaining high standards of excellence. By fostering a strong club culture where development and competition go hand in hand, we ensure that every player has the chance to thrive in the best environment for their growth. At Salthill Devon FC, every player matters, every team is important, and success is built on development, commitment, and opportunity.