New Zealand Football has released updated guidance for clubs under its Club Licensing system, a development tool used to support clubs to reach the minimum level of standards to compete in top-level women’s and men’s competitions, such as the new National League. 

The changes have been made after engagement with clubs across Aotearoa, as well as consultation with a working group made up of representatives from across our six federations. Echoing the motivations behind the changes to the national competitions structure, the updated guidance seeks to encourage sustainability and youth development while also streamlining requirements of clubs. 

As of April 2021, the previous four different Club Licences (Youth, Regional, National and Aspirational) have been consolidated into two: National Club Licence and Aspirational Club Licence. The Youth Club Licence guidance has been integrated into both. 

The National Club Licence establishes a set of minimum standards for clubs to compete at the highest level, including guidance around running youth and reserve teams in addition to a first team. The guidance also outlines coaching qualification requirements from 2022. 

The Aspirational Club Licence is a target for clubs achieving at the highest level and will be voluntary for clubs to meet. 

“We’ve seen significant change in our National League system in 2021 and it’s really important that we support our clubs to ensure we have sustainability linked with quality club and player development, including youth development” said Andy Boyens, Technical Director at New Zealand Football.

“The new National League system has enabled a full alignment of the game in this country and the new Club Licensing regulations reflect this alignment by promoting quality environments and strong pathways for our players to progress and then excel at the highest level of domestic football in Aotearoa.”

The full Club Licensing guidance can be read here.

Article added: Saturday 01 May 2021