U23/U20
(All of the content would be individualised to each team and the format would be used as a template)
Senior Academy
U23 / 20
The Senior Academy provides a high-performance environment for players transitioning into senior football. Designed to support emerging players, this program focuses on advanced development, competitive preparation and progression into senior men’s football.
Team Overview
The U23/U20 program represents the final stage of youth development within the North Geelong Warriors pathway, bridging the gap between junior football and senior competition.
This environment is designed for ambitious players seeking to continue their development in a structured, competitive setting while preparing for the demands of senior football.
Players in this age group train and compete within a high-performance environment focused on tactical understanding, individual growth, physical preparation and strong team culture. The program supports players pursuing progression into senior football while continuing to develop the habits and standards required at higher levels of the game.
Training Days
The U23/U20 squad trains three nights per week:
Monday
Focused team training, technical preparation and recovery-based work.
Wednesday
Tactical training, game model development and positional work.
Thursday
Match preparation, team organisation and final preparation heading into competition.
Training sessions are designed to create consistency, intensity and an environment that supports ongoing player development throughout the season.
Player Development Focus
The U23/U20 program focuses on preparing players for the transition into senior football through continued development in key performance areas, including:
Tactical understanding and decision-making
Position-specific development
Physical preparation and performance habits
Technical execution under pressure
Game awareness and leadership development
Players are challenged to continue improving both individually and within the team environment while building the standards expected at the next level.
Competition & Matchday Environment
The U23/U20 team competes in a highly competitive environment designed to support player growth through meaningful match experiences.
Matchdays provide opportunities for players to apply their development in game situations, strengthen team cohesion and continue building the habits required to perform consistently.
The competitive environment encourages players to embrace challenge, develop resilience and represent the club with professionalism and commitment.
Pathways & Progression
The U23/U20 program serves as a key progression point within the North Geelong Warriors pathway, supporting players as they work toward senior football opportunities.
Strong performances, consistent development and commitment within this environment may support progression into:
Senior football opportunities
Higher performance environments
Ongoing development pathways within the club
The long-term objective is to prepare players to take the next step in their football journey.
Team Culture & Expectations
The U23/U20 environment is built on strong standards, accountability and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Players are expected to:
Attend training consistently
Maintain strong preparation standards
Contribute positively to team culture
Demonstrate discipline and professionalism
Represent the club with pride on and off the field
The program aims to develop players who are prepared for the demands of senior football while contributing to a strong and positive club environment.
Interested in Playing for U23/U20?
Players interested in joining the U23/U20 program can register their interest and learn more about opportunities within the North Geelong Warriors pathway.
Season Information
Trials & Player Assessment
Entry into the U23/U20 program may involve a trial or player assessment process, depending on squad availability and seasonal requirements.
Trials provide an opportunity for players to be assessed within the club environment and for coaching staff to evaluate suitability within the program.
Trial opportunities, expressions of interest and assessment dates are communicated by the club throughout the year.
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Expression of Interest Opens: October
Trial Period: November–December
Squad Confirmation: January
Key Dates
Important dates for the U23/U20 season may include pre-season commencement, registration deadlines, competition start dates and club events.
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Pre-Season Begins: January 15
Round 1: March 10
Mid-Season Break: July
Finals Series: September
Registration
Players accepted into the program are required to complete club registration prior to the commencement of the season.
Registration includes player enrolment, competition requirements and club onboarding information.
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Registrations Open: January
Registration Deadline: February
Season Commencement: March
Matchday Commitments
Players and families should be aware of regular matchday commitments throughout the season, including fixture schedules, travel requirements and team responsibilities.
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Weekly Fixtures During Season
Home and Away Matches
Occasional Tournament or Gala Events
Club Communication
Season updates, scheduling information and team communications are typically provided through club communication channels throughout the year.
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Team Communication Platform
Club Email Updates
Fixture and Schedule Notifications
Interested in Playing for U23/U20?
Players interested in joining the U23/U20 program can register their interest and learn more about opportunities within the North Geelong Warriors pathway.