Dear Parents and Players,
Following our recent communications regarding the Academy restructure for 2026, we are pleased to confirm key information and outline the process for the upcoming season. This notice provides important details around registrations, programme structure, age-group processes, and costs as we move into the next phase of the Halswell United Academy.
Our Vision
To foster a thriving environment that develops the character and potential of every Halswell United player, enabling them to reach the highest ceiling possible in their football journey.
Our Mission
To provide an amateur academy environment that upholds professional standards — through the knowledge, expectations, and behaviours that define our Academy pathway to Senior First Team football at the club.
2026 Academy Registrations – Important Information
Registrations for the 2026 Academy season will open in mid-January 2026, aligning with the launch of our new club website and the updated New Zealand Football (NZF) online registration portal.
Squad Sizes
- Each age-grade squad will consist of 16–18 players (with limited exceptions)
- Squad placement is not based solely on current ability — players develop at different rates within the Academy environment
- Where possible, we aim to maintain continuity from previous Academy teams to support commitment and long-term development
- The Halswell United Academy provides a high-quality, inclusive football experience within a supportive and collaborative culture
Expression of Interest (Required for All Players)
Until registrations officially open, all interested players must complete an Expression of Interest (EOI) form.
This allows us to plan squad sizes, manage numbers, and ensure a smooth transition into the 2026 season.
Expression of Interest Form:
https://forms.gle/DAdg1tS14EUGW3M67
Submitting an EOI does not guarantee a place in the Academy.
U14–U17 Academy – Registration & Placement Process (No Trials)
For all U14–U17 age groups, the Academy will operate under an invitation-based registration process.
- Players must first complete an Expression of Interest
- Selected players will be invited to attend Academy training at the start of Term 1
- During the initial training period, squad placement will be confirmed based on commitment, suitability, and available capacity
- Only players who are formally offered a place will be invited to register and make payment
- This approach allows players to be integrated naturally into the Academy environment without formal trials
Once squads are filled, additional players may be placed on a waitlist should spaces become available later in the season.
U13 & U14 Canterbury Development League (CDL) – Final Update
We would also like to provide clarity regarding the U13 and U14 Canterbury Development League (CDL) for 2026.
- Following a long and ongoing consultation process, we have received our final position from Mainland Football
- Halswell United will prepare its programme to be entered into the Canterbury Development League after the completion of the initial grading rounds
- These grading rounds take place across the first six weeks of the competition season
- This outcome represents the best available offering Mainland Football can provide for 2026, despite high-level discussions regarding the club’s position and programme
Queenstown Tournament
- We are currently in the final process of confirming entries for the Queenstown Tournament
- This tournament will involve the majority of our U13 and U14 Academy group
- Participation in the Queenstown Tournament will not influence or pre-determine Academy selection decisionsfor the 2026 season
- All Academy judgements will continue to be made across the full programme, aligned with our development principles and squad capacity
The Queenstown Tournament is viewed as a key development and team experience rather than a selection mechanism.
Programme Cost – 2026 Season
The total cost for the 2026 Academy programme is $995 per player.
What’s Included
- 33-week programme running from Term 1 to Term 4, 2026
- Qualified, paid specialist coaching led by an OFC A Licence Director
- Access to quality training facilities and surfaces
- Tournament football team entry opportunities
- Holistic education and player development opportunities
- Winter season registration included
- Academy training top and shorts
Payment Information
- A deposit will be required only once a player has been offered and accepted a confirmed Academy place
- Remaining balances may be paid in instalments across the season upon request
- Full payment details will be provided once registrations open in January
Programme Overview
Total Training Weeks: 33
- Term 1: 7 weeks
- Term 2: 9 weeks
- Term 3: 9 weeks
- Term 4: 8 weeks
Term Schedule & Key Dates
Term 1 – Halswell Domain
- Start Date: Tuesday 17 February
- Training: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:30–6:00pm
- Special Monday Sessions: March 2, March 30
- Academy Day: Wednesday 6 April (9:00am–2:30pm)
Term 2
- Start Date: April 20
- Training: Mondays (time TBA) & Thursdays, 4:30–6:00pm
- Special Tuesday Sessions: May 5, June 2, June 30
- Final Session: Thursday 2 July
Term 3
- Start Date: July 20
- Training: Mondays (time TBA) & Thursdays, 4:30–6:00pm
- Special Tuesday Sessions: July 28, August 11, September 22
- Final Session: Friday 25 September
Term 4
- Start Date: October 12
- Training: Mondays only (8 weeks)
- Final Session: November 23
Head Coaches – Male Academy
- U13 Head Coach: Alex Young – OFC C Licence; 50+ Men’s First Team caps
- U14 Head Coach: Joshua McTurk – OFC C Licence; 50+ Men’s First Team caps
- U15 Head Coach: Callum Bowman – OFC C Licence; Men’s First Team player
- U17/U19 Head Coach: Tom Kean – OFC C Licence; Men’s First Team Performance Analyst
Goalkeeper Coaches:
Connor Caswell (Men’s First Team GK; OFC Goalkeeping C Licence)
Neil Caswell
Strength & Conditioning Coach:
Andre Richards – Bachelor of Sport Science; experience with the Indonesian National Team
We are incredibly excited about the year ahead and the continued growth of an Academy environment that reflects the highest standards of youth football in our region.
For now, please ensure you complete the Expression of Interest form. Once registrations officially open in January, we will be in touch with all prospective players and families regarding next steps.
Have a safe and Merry Christmas!
Ollie Hawkins,
Director of Football
Premier Men’s Head Coach
fdm@halswellunitedfc.co.nz
Halswell United AFC
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