At Lindfield FC, we are constantly striving to create the best environment for our players to learn and enjoy the game of Football.
In 2024, we will implement a new program called the Ball Mastery Badge Scheme. The program will be trialled by our JDL players to consolidate the concept before rolling the program out across more Divisions and Age Groups in future seasons, as part of our Super Skills program.

What is Ball Mastery?

Ball Mastery is the development of a player’s fundamental ball skills so they become comfortable with ball control utilising both feet. 

Ball mastery training not only increases ball control, but increases confidence, and lays the foundations for more complex team-based and tactical learnings later on.

How can Ball Mastery be achieved?

Ball mastery is achieved through repeated ball manipulation using all surfaces of both feet. Improved skills can only be achieved through regular practice and guidance.

The Badge Scheme is designed to provide a challenging, yet achievable skill development program with a strong link between training and home. Ball Mastery will be achieved when skills developed in training sessions are reinforced with extra time and effort put into practising at home.

How does the Badge Scheme work?

• The Ball Mastery Badge Scheme comprises five (5) levels and a total of 23 skills.

• This structure ensures that all players aged U8 through U11 have a set of achievable skills to focus on.

• Players will have the opportunity to learn and practise the skills at training plus use the linked videos below to practise at home.

• All players will begin at the KICKSTART Level, but they can progress through the program at their own pace.

• The implementation of the program will vary for each age group, adapting to their specific needs and developmental stage.

• The fundamental expectation is that each session, every week, will include dedicated time for practising skills outlined in the Badge Scheme.

• Coaches will introduce players to specific skills, which may include both new and repeated ones as deemed necessary.

Assessment

Assessment occurs after players have been introduced to the 4 or 5 skills of each level and have had the opportunity to practice them.

Coaches evaluate mastery of each skill, requiring players to perform it without errors and with proper technique before awarding them the patch corresponding to that skill level.

When a Level has been completed, the Parent/player must complete the Ball Mastery Record Form. Badges will only be presented after the information is entered in the form. One new entry for each Level achieved.

Once players have mastered the skills of one level, they can progress to the next level of Ball Mastery Skills. However, assessment for each level can only occur after players have been awarded the badge from the preceding level by a Head Coach, meaning players cannot skip levels.

Patches earned can be sewn onto training shorts as a visible representation of a player's hard work, dedication, skill level and progress in the program.

As players move through the program, we want to see players develop both a growth mindset and a sense of pride in improving.
The Ball Mastery Badge Scheme is designed to help Lindfield FC players strive to develop their game and be rewarded for their sustained effort.