Junior Program FAQs
Q: What age should my child be to register?
A: Minimum age is 5 (4 turning 5 this year) for Intraclub; and 6 (6 turning 7 this year) for Miniroos.
Q: How are coaches determined?
A: MPFC is a community club. We rely 100% on parents to fill coaching, managing and other positions within teams. Without this help we cannot provide such a fantastic program for the kids of our local community.
Q: Does my child have to attend training?
A: There is no training for the Intraclub, however the Miniroos and Junior Leagues format requires children to train with their teams 1-2 times a week (as above).
Q: How do I know my child will be safe?
A: Each MPFC game leader is accredited by Football Victoria. MPFC volunteers have obtained a Working with Children Check.
Q: Is your program recognised by a governing body?
A: Miniroos and Juniors Leagues are endorsed by Football Australia and is operated by Football Victoria. These organisations operate under the international rules of FIFA (the global governing body of football).
Q: May I drop off my child and pick him/her up at the end?
A: Regardless of the presence of dedicated game leaders and availability of onsite first aid during all sessions, we require all participants to have a parent / guardian present at all times. In addition, it is important that you are there to support the coaches and team managers.
Q: What other equipment may my child need?
A: Kids will need water bottles, football boots, shin guards. Shin guards must be worn to participate. In addition, you may like to consider warmer and water proof clothing during the winter months. The sessions will go ahead regardless of the weather.
For any other queries please contact the Junior Committee via middleparkfc.juniors@gmail.com.
Q: As a Junior player how do I join a Miniroos orJunior Leagues (competitive Home & Away) team at MPFC?
A: For children (ages 4-18) MPFC has three football programs: Intraclub (ages 4-10, non-competitive training and games with other Parkers), "Home & Away" Miniroos (U7-U11, competitive teams playing other clubs) and "Home & Away"Junior Leagues (U12-U18, competitive teams in leagues playing other clubs). Intraclub, with a focus on fun, is a great place to start for those new to the games, or not wanting the commitment of H&A training and competitions. There are no trials for Intraclub, but for H&A teams trials are held in Nov/Dec and again in Feb of each year.
Q: Is Intraclub the pathway to H&A Miniroos?
A: Intraclub is not an entry-point to a Home & Away team, but can be a pathway to support selection through trials. Intraclub players are given no preference for selection to Home & Away and will need to trial for spots in a Home & Away team alongside others. However, Intraclub does provide children with the core skills and experience to trial effectively for H&A teams the following year.