The England DNA is the playing and coaching philosophy of the England teams. Its aim is to help clubs and coaches at all levels of the game learn more about the vision for future England teams and players and the ways of working being developed to ensure consistency and connection between all our age-group teams.

South Molton Football Club has developed its own football philosophy with influence taken from the FA’s England DNA model.

SMAFC’s Club Philosophy & England’s DNA Model:

Mini Kickers – U10’s:

Format: friendly 5 or 7 a-side round robin tournaments

SMAFC philosophy: These are the formative years and all about fun and enjoyment. We encourage our coaches to use mixed ability teams to ensure that all players get equal game time on the pitch with rotation of positions to enhance player development. Players will be chosen on a ‘first come, first served basis’. Players that miss out on a place will be asked first for the next fixture. If a coach decides to enter a team for a tournament, organised outside of the usual run of matches, then they can choose their own squad and are not required to offer to all players.

U11’s – U13’s:

Format: 9 a-side matches played on bigger pitches and eventually leading to a league format

SMAFC philosophy: Whilst the priority is still on enjoyment rather than a win at all costs, the coaches have the flexibility to select their teams and decide on positions of players and game time on the pitch, although it is recognised that all players should have an opportunity to play football. This can happen in several ways with additional friendly games being arranged with opposing teams or a manager trying to utilise the squad members to provide playing opportunities. It is at the manager’s discretion as to who they select, and the positions players play in. Players are still developing physically and mentally, and consideration is given to this, but it is the coaches who pick the team and respect must be given to their choices.

U14’s – Senior:

Format: 11 a-side on a full-size pitch

SMAFC philosophy: The priority is still on enjoyment rather than a win at all costs. Again, the coaches have the flexibility to select their teams and decide on playing time and positions and it is recognised that all players should have the opportunity to play football. As above, this can happen in several ways with additional friendly games being arranged with opposing teams or a manager trying to utilise the squad members to provide playing opportunities. It is at the manager’s discretion as to who they select, and the positions players play in. Players are still developing physically and mentally, and consideration is given to this, but it is the coaches who pick the team and respect must be given to their choices.
Please be aware that there are restrictions on how much game time that an under 18 is allowed to participate in during the day or competition. This will be monitored by the coach.

Style of Play:

South Molton Football Club encourages our teams to play passing football along the ground and out from the back. We believe this is a more enjoyable way to both play and develop players as individuals. All players should be told to play within the laws of the game and to always respect the referee’s decision.