Glenavon FC Development Centre

Develop • Enjoy • Achieve

A fun, inclusive and positive environment providing high-quality football coaching for boys and girls of all abilities.

Player development – Learn, improve and reach your potential.
Inclusive environment – Everyone welcome, everyone valued.
Positive experience – Build confidence, teamwork and a love for the game.

Key details

Start date	Sunday 4th October 2026
Venue	Mourneview Park 3G, 2 Oxford Street, Lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT66 6JL
Sessions	Every Sunday
Block 1	4th October 2026 – 21st March 2027 (22 weeks, with a Christmas / New Year break)
Block 2	28th March 2027 – 22nd August 2027 (22 weeks)
Monthly fee	£27 per player per month (discounted rate may apply – see FAQs)
Payment	Online via TeamFeePay
Contact	[email protected]

Official Technical Partner: adidas

Foreword

Develop. Enjoy. Achieve.

We are delighted to introduce the Glenavon FC Development Centre, a new and exciting chapter in the future of our Club. This initiative is built on our proud heritage and our commitment to nurturing young players in a positive, professional and player-focused environment.

The Development Centre is more than football – it is about developing character, creating opportunities and inspiring the next generation to be the best they can be, both on and off the pitch.

Below, our leadership team share their thoughts on what this exciting new venture means for Glenavon FC.

Mick O’Connor – First Team Manager

The future of any football club lies in the development of its players. The Development Centre will provide a clear pathway for young players to learn, grow and progress the right way.

We will be looking to work closely with the coaches and families to ensure every player has the opportunity to reach their potential and one day represent Glenavon FC.

Cathal Morrison – Vice Chairman

This Development Centre reflects our vision for the future and our ongoing investment in the next generation. It is about creating the best possible environment for players, coaches and families to thrive.

I am confident this initiative will strengthen our club, our community and ensure Glenavon FC continues to grow from the ground up.

Lawrence Looney – Chairman

I am immensely proud of the launch of our Development Centre. It demonstrates our commitment to the future and to providing young people with opportunities to develop in a safe, supportive and ambitious environment.

This is an important step forward for Glenavon FC and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have for many years to come.

Ryan Prentice – UEFA A Coach

As UEFA A Coach, I am excited to be part of this new journey. The Development Centre will focus on high-quality coaching, player development and creating a love for the game.

Together, we will inspire players to work hard, enjoy their football and strive for excellence every day.

Our commitment

We are committed to providing the highest standards of coaching, facilities and player care. Our goal is to help every young player reach their potential while representing Glenavon FC with pride, respect and passion.

Develop – We support every player to grow and improve.
Enjoy – We create a fun, positive environment.
Achieve – We encourage ambition and celebrate success.

One Club. One Community. One Future. Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we can achieve great things.

Programme and Timetable

The programme runs every Sunday at Mourneview Park 3G across two blocks of 22 weeks.

Block 1: 4th October 2026 – 21st March 2027 (Christmas / New Year break)
Block 2: 28th March 2027 – 22nd August 2027

Sunday session timetable – Mourneview Park 3G

Time	Group	Ages	Focus
10:00 – 11:00	Foundation & Junior	3–8	Fun, ball mastery & fundamental skills
11:00 – 12:00	Intermediate	9–12	Technical development & game skills
12:00 – 13:00	Youth	13–16	Advanced technical, tactical & match development

Players to arrive 15 minutes before their session. Players must bring a ball, water bottle and wear suitable kit.

Session structure (60 minutes)

Foundation & Junior (3–8 years) – Focus: enjoyment first, build confidence

Time	Activity	Detail
0–10 mins	Arrival & Ball Familiarisation	Free movement, dribbling, stop/start, turns
10–20 mins	Ball Mastery	Close control, touches, turns, manipulation
20–35 mins	Skill of the Week	Dribbling, passing, receiving, 1v1 moves, finishing
35–50 mins	Small-Sided Games	3v3 / 4v4, lots of touches, encourage creativity
50–60 mins	Fun Challenge / Cool Down	Shooting, relays, team games, player feedback

Intermediate (9–12 years) – Focus: develop technical quality

Time	Activity	Detail
0–10 mins	Technical Warm-Up	Ball work, dynamic movement, passing activation
10–25 mins	Technical Station 1	First touch, control, turning, dribbling
25–40 mins	Technical Station 2	Passing & receiving, movement, support angles, playing forward
40–55 mins	Game-Based Learning	4v4 / 5v5, transition, creating space, decision-making
55–60 mins	Review	Recovery, coach feedback, individual challenge

Youth (13–16 years) – Focus: prepare for higher level football

Time	Activity	Detail
0–10 mins	Technical Activation	Passing, first touch, movement, ball speed
10–25 mins	Technical Development	Receiving under pressure, playing forward, combination play
25–40 mins	Tactical Development	Creating space, movement, pressing, defensive organisation, transition
40–55 mins	Conditioned Match Play	5v5 / 6v6, specific conditions, coach observation
55–60 mins	Review & Cool Down	Player feedback, coach feedback, individual targets

In Block 2 the Foundation & Junior 20–35 minute slot is Skill Development (dribbling, passing, receiving, 1v1 moves, finishing) and the Ball Mastery slot covers close control, touches, turns and coordination; all other timings are unchanged.

Block 1 weekly development programme

4th October 2026 – 21st March 2027

Week	Theme	Focus areas
1	Ball Mastery & Initial Assessment	Control, confidence, coordination
2	Dribbling & Running With the Ball	Close control, change of direction
3	Passing & Receiving	Technique, accuracy, first touch
4	First Touch	Awareness, control, preparation
5	1v1 Attacking	Beating an opponent, creativity
6	1v1 Defending	Delay, tackle, body position
7	Turning & Change of Direction	Skills, agility, balance
8	Finishing	Technique, composure, variety
9	Creating Chances	Decision making, final pass
10	Movement & Creating Space	Off the ball, timing, angles
11	Combination Play	Link up play, support, patterns
12	Decision Making	Read the game, choices
13	Transition – Attack to Defence	Counter press, recovery
14	Transition – Defence to Attack	Speed of play, support
15	Pressing & Defensive Principles	Win the ball, work as a unit
16	Playing Through the Pitch	Build up, progression, width
17	Game Understanding	Awareness, shape, roles
18	Position-Specific Development	Key skills by position
19	Match Scenarios	Set plays, overloads, underloads
20	Small-Sided Games	Application, intensity
21	Player Challenge & Assessment	Review, individual goals
22	Development Centre Festival / Review	Celebration, feedback, targets

Qualified coaches
Safe, inclusive environment
Player development pathway
Focus on improvement, fun & progression

Block 2 weekly development programme

28th March 2027 – 22nd August 2027

Week	Theme	Focus areas
1	Player Re-Assessment & Technical Review	Assess progress, set targets
2	Ball Mastery Under Pressure	Close control, body shape, shielding
3	Receiving & Playing Forward	First touch, scanning, decision-making
4	Passing Combinations & Support Play	Movement, angles, link play
5	1v1 Attacking – Beating an Opponent	Skills, deception, acceleration
6	1v1 Defending – Delay, Deny & Win	Footwork, jockeying, tackling
7	Finishing – Technique & Composure	Finishing methods, composure
8	Creating & Finishing Chances	Final pass, timing, movement
9	Movement Off the Ball	Runs, timing, creating space
10	Playing Through the Thirds	Build up play, transitions
11	Attacking Transitions	Speed, support, penetration
12	Defensive Transitions	Recovery, shape, communication
13	Pressing & Winning the Ball	Press triggers, intercept, regain
14	Possession & Retaining the Ball	Patience, control, circulation
15	Attacking Principles & Combination Play	Overloads, width, depth
16	Defensive Organisation	Shape, compactness, roles
17	Position-Specific Development	Technical & tactical roles
18	Decision Making Under Pressure	Awareness, choices, execution
19	Game Management & Match Scenarios	Game states, tactical awareness
20	Small-Sided & Conditioned Games	Application, realism, intensity
21	Individual Player Challenges & Assessment	Review, measure, individual goals
22	Development Centre Festival / Final Assessment	Celebration, awards, feedback

Development focus across all age groups

Technical – Improve skills and technique.
Tactical – Understand the game better.
Physical – Movement, speed and agility.
Social – Teamwork, respect and confidence.

Player progress

Regular assessment and feedback
Individual targets and challenges
Pathway to Glenavon Academy
Encouraging every player to reach their potential

Building confidence. Developing players. Strengthening Glenavon.

Fees and Payment – TeamFeePay

Subscription made simple. Easy • Secure • Convenient

The monthly fee is £27 per player per month. A discounted rate of £17.50 is available for eligible siblings, as well as Glenavon Academy and Lurgan Town players.

Glenavon FC uses TeamFeePay to manage subscriptions and payments.

How it works

Register – You will receive an invitation link from Glenavon FC. Click the link to create your free TeamFeePay account.
Add player(s) – Add your child(ren) to your account using the unique club code provided in your invitation.
Select plan – Choose the correct subscription plan for your player(s). Monthly fees are clearly shown.
Set up payment – Add your preferred payment method. Payments are processed securely each month.
Done! – You’re all set! Payments will be taken automatically each month. No more chasing invoices.

Why use TeamFeePay?

Secure payments – Your payments and data are protected with bank-level security.
Save time – Automated recurring payments mean one less thing to worry about.
Mobile friendly – Manage payments, update details and view history on the go.
Paperless – Go green with digital receipts and communications.

You can also receive payment reminders by email, get instant notifications of payments, view payment history and receipts, and update your details anytime.

Need help? Visit the TeamFeePay help centre (teamfeepay.com) or contact our Club Administrator for assistance.

Your Child’s First Day

A positive start to their football journey

We want every player to feel welcome, confident and excited when they join us. Here’s what your child’s first day at the Glenavon FC Development Centre will look like.

Before you arrive – Make sure your child is ready with the right kit, plenty of water and a positive attitude. Arrive 10–15 minutes early.
Meet the coaches – Our friendly coaching team will welcome your child, introduce themselves and help them feel at ease.
Get involved – The first session is all about getting comfortable, meeting new friends and understanding how we work.
Play – Players take part in fun, age-appropriate activities designed to develop skills, teamwork and confidence.
Develop – Coaches begin to understand each player’s strengths and areas for development.
Go home smiling – The most important objective of Day One – enjoy football and want to come back next week!

What to bring

Football boots (moulded or astro)
Shin pads
Appropriate kit (weather dependent)
Water bottle
Positive attitude and a smile!

Parents & guardians

Please stay behind the barriers during sessions and let our coaches lead. Your support makes a big difference!

You can expect

A safe and welcoming environment
Qualified and experienced coaches
Fun, engaging and structured sessions
A clear pathway for development and progression
A club that cares about every player

Every child. Every session. Every opportunity.

Rules for our Development Centre

Together we can create a fun, safe and positive environment where everyone can develop, enjoy and achieve.

Rules for players

Be respectful – Respect your coaches, teammates, opponents and officials at all times.
Try your best – Give 100% effort, listen carefully and follow instructions.
Be a team player – Support your teammates, share the ball and work together.
Be positive – Encourage others, celebrate effort and accept mistakes as part of learning.
Look after our environment – Respect the facilities, equipment and keep our environment clean and tidy.
Be on time – Arrive on time, ready to learn and make the most of your session.
Play the Glenavon way – Be proud to represent Glenavon FC and always play with honesty, integrity and a positive attitude.

Rules for parents / carers

Be respectful – Respect coaches, players, officials and other parents at all times.
Be positive – Encourage all players, not just your own child. Focus on effort, enjoyment and development.
Let the coaches coach – Allow coaches to deliver their sessions and give instructions.
No shouting from the sidelines – Please do not shout instructions or criticism. It can undermine players and coaches.
No phones on the sidelines – Please be present and supportive. Avoid using mobile phones during sessions.
Support & safety – Ensure your child arrives on time, with the right kit, a drink and is picked up promptly.
One Club. One Community. One Future. – Together we create the best environment for every player to develop, enjoy and achieve.

Thank you for helping us build a positive future for every player.

Safeguarding & Player Welfare

A safe environment. Every player. Every time.

At Glenavon FC, the safety, wellbeing and enjoyment of every child is our top priority. We are fully committed to providing a safe, positive and inclusive environment where every player can learn, develop and thrive.

Our commitment

Safe environment – We provide a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where every player is treated with respect and dignity.
Safe recruitment – All staff and volunteers are appropriately vetted, qualified and supported to ensure the highest standards of care.
Player welfare – We promote the physical, emotional and social wellbeing of every player both on and off the pitch.
Appropriate communication – We communicate openly, honestly and respectfully with players and parents, always in the best interests of the player.
Health & safety – We promote good health and safety practice and respond quickly and appropriately to any concerns.
Positive environment – We create a positive atmosphere that encourages effort, celebrates progress and builds confidence.
Zero tolerance – We have zero tolerance of bullying, discrimination, abuse or any behaviour that puts a player at risk or makes them feel uncomfortable.
Ongoing education – We provide ongoing education and support for our staff, volunteers, players and parents on safeguarding best practice.
Policies & procedures – We have robust safeguarding policies and procedures in place and review them regularly.
Working together – We work in partnership with parents, players and our community to create a safe, supportive and enjoyable experience for all.

If you have any concerns

If you have any concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child, please speak to our Designated Safeguarding Officer:

Designated Safeguarding Officer: Cathal Morrison

Phone: 07545 309106

Email: [email protected]

Concerns can also be raised with any member of the coaching staff or club official. All concerns will be taken seriously and handled confidentially.

Together, we can make football a safe place to learn, to grow and to enjoy.

Player Assessment & Progression

Understand. Develop. Progress.

At Glenavon FC Development Centre, we believe every player can improve. Our player assessment process helps us understand each individual, support their development and guide them on their football journey.

Our ongoing assessment process

Observe – Coaches observe players in training and matches, looking at technical skills, tactical understanding, physical development and attitude.
Assess – Players are assessed regularly using our development framework to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Feedback – Players receive positive, constructive feedback from coaches to help them understand their progress and next steps.
Develop – Coaches plan and deliver sessions that challenge players and help them develop the skills, habits and mindset to reach their potential.
Progress – We celebrate progress and provide opportunities for players to challenge themselves and move forward on their football pathway.

What we assess

Technical – Ball control, passing, receiving, dribbling, shooting and first touch.
Tactical – Understanding of the game, decision making, positioning and awareness.
Physical – Speed, agility, coordination, balance and overall athletic development.
Psychological – Confidence, resilience, focus, determination and attitude.
Social – Teamwork, respect, communication and sportsmanship.

Assessment timeline

Ongoing during every training session
Mini reviews every 6–8 weeks
Formal reviews at the end of each 22-week block
Individual feedback and goal setting

A clear development pathway

Our assessments help guide players through a pathway designed to support long-term development: Development Centre (build foundation) → Academy (refine & challenge) → Reserves & U20s (compete & prepare) → First Team (achieve).

“We don’t just look at today. We look at the potential for tomorrow.”

The Pathway to the First Team

Developing players. Building futures.

At Glenavon FC, we are committed to developing talented, dedicated and ambitious players. Our clear player pathway provides opportunities to learn, grow and progress – all the way to our First Team.

Stage	Ages	Description
Grassroots	5–11	The beginning of the journey. Learning the basics, building confidence and developing a love for the game.
Development Centre	12–14	Structured coaching and a player-first environment. Developing technical skills, game understanding and character.
Academy	15–18	Advanced coaching in a high-performance environment. Focusing on individual development, education and competing at the highest level.
Reserves & U20s	16+	Bridge to senior football. Gaining experience, building physicality and preparing for the step up to men’s football.
First Team Squad	17+	Training and competing alongside experienced professionals. Representing Glenavon FC with pride.
First Team Player	Lifelong	The goal. Performing at the highest level, inspiring the next generation and creating your legacy.

Our pathway. Your opportunity.

Player first – We put the player at the heart of everything we do.
Development – High-quality coaching, modern facilities and a clear development plan.
Support – Guidance on and off the pitch to help players reach their potential.
Opportunity – A proven pathway from grassroots to our First Team.
Community – We are one club, one community, one future.

Directions to Mourneview Park

Mourneview Park, 2 Oxford Street, Lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT66 6JL

By car – from Belfast (M1)

Take the M1 motorway.
Take Junction 11 (Lurgan North).
At the roundabout take the 3rd exit onto A26 (Belfast Road).
At the next roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Oxford Street.
Mourneview Park is on your left.

By car – from Portadown (A3)

Take the A3 towards Lurgan.
At the T-junction, turn left onto Belfast Road (A26).
At the roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Oxford Street.
Mourneview Park is on your left.

By car – from Armagh (A3)

Take the A3 towards Lurgan.
Continue straight onto Belfast Road (A26).
At the roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Oxford Street.
Mourneview Park is on your left.

By public transport

Translink Ulsterbus services 237, 238 and 239 stop within walking distance of Mourneview Park. Check www.translink.co.uk for latest timetables.

Parking

On-site parking is available at Mourneview Park. Please follow stewards’ instructions on arrival.

On arrival

Arrive early – Give yourself plenty of time to park and get to your session.
Follow signs – Follow directional signs and steward instructions.
Keep it clean – Please use bins provided and help keep our ground tidy.
Respect – Show respect to everyone and help make it a great experience for all.
Be proud – Represent Glenavon FC with pride – on and off the pitch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most common questions from parents.

Who can join the Development Centre?

The Development Centre is open to boys and girls aged 3–16 of all abilities. Whether your child is new to football or already playing, everyone is welcome.

When does the programme run?

The programme runs every Sunday at Mourneview Park 3G. Block 1: 4 October 2026 – 21 March 2027. Block 2: 28 March 2027 – 22 August 2027.

How much does it cost?

The monthly fee is £27 per player. A discounted rate of £17.50 is available for eligible siblings, as well as Glenavon Academy and Lurgan Town players.

How do I pay?

Payments are made securely online via TeamFeePay. Full details on how to register and make payments are included above.

What should my child bring?

Players should bring football boots (moulded or astro), shin pads, appropriate training kit for the weather and a water bottle.

What happens if it rains?

Sessions will take place in all weather on our 3G pitch, so please ensure your child is dressed appropriately.

Who will coach my child?

All sessions are delivered by qualified and experienced coaches who are dedicated to supporting every player’s development in a safe and positive environment.

How will my child be assessed?

Players are assessed throughout the 22-week blocks by our coaching team. This helps us understand their strengths and areas for development and guide them on their journey.

Is it competitive?

The focus is on development, enjoyment and personal progress. We create a supportive environment where every child can improve at their own pace.

Is there a pathway?

Yes! The Development Centre is the first step in the Glenavon pathway, with opportunities to progress into our Academy and, for those who continue to develop, towards our First Team and Ladies First Team.

How can I contact you?

If you have any questions, please contact the Development Centre team at [email protected] or speak to any coach at a session.

Still have a question?

We’re here to help! Speak to our coaches at any session or email us at [email protected]. We look forward to welcoming you to the Glenavon family!

Together, We Build Brighter Futures

The Glenavon FC Development Centre represents our commitment to the future – to our young players, our coaches, our families and our wider community.

This is more than football. It’s about developing character, creating opportunities and inspiring the next generation to be the best they can be, on and off the pitch.

Thank you for being part of this exciting journey. We can’t wait to see what we achieve together.

Develop – We support every player to grow and improve.
Enjoy – We create a fun, positive environment.
Achieve – We encourage ambition and celebrate success.

Be part of our journey. Be part of Glenavon FC.

Thank you for your support. Together, we can achieve great things.

One Club. One Community. One Future. | glenavonfc.com