Northern NSW Football was the first Member Federation to pilot an ALDI MiniRoos Kick Off Pilot Program designed specifically for 3 and 4-year-olds. The idea behind the program was to provide young children with the opportunity to play football.
Maitland Junior Football Club, one of the two programs run in Northern NSW, have recently finished the program and it was a massive success with 31 children taking part.
Northern NSW Football’s MiniRoos Development Officer, Tom Oldaker, applauded the club for their achievement of running the first ever ALDI MiniRoos Kick Off Pilot Program.
“Maitland JFC did a fantastic job in running the pilot program for the 3 and 4 year olds. By engaging the children in football, Maitland JFC have created a genuine pathway into junior club football.” Oldaker said.
“The program animated simple games that allowed the children to practice basic football skills. Coaches and parents provided constant support and encouragement with lots of high fives which gave the children lots of confidence,” Oldaker continued.
With the use of animation and storytelling to bring the games to life, Maitland JFC conducted a themed hero week at the end of the program where children dressed up as their favourite superhero.
“It was great to see all the children so involved in the games. Watching the children dribble the ball pretending it was their superpower while dressed as Batman showed just how much they enjoyed the program,” Oldaker said of the final week.
Maitland JFC Secretary, Evelyn Stonham, echoed Oldaker comments and said the program at the club was a ‘great success’.
“Children and parents alike enjoyed the program. The parents could see the children listening, doing the activities and enjoying them,” Stonham said.
“There was no pressure. If a little one did not wish to participate in an activity, the parent would come onto the field and hold their hand until they were confident to engage again.
“The feedback from parents has been all positive with comments such as our little one cannot wait for Friday’s and every day we are asked is it Friday yet?’,” Stonham concluded.
With the program turning out to be a great success more programs are due to run during the postseason beginning in October 2017.
To find an ALDI MiniRoos Kick Off Program, please visit http://www.miniroos.com.au/
Any clubs interested in hosting an ALDI MiniRoos Kick Off program please contact Tom Oldaker at miniroos@northernnswfootball.com.au
