Free community football clinics for boys and girls aged 8-13 will launch in South Auckland, as part of a partnership between A-League club Auckland FC and Northern Region Football.
The initiative will see NRF facilitate coaching sessions with Auckland FC at local football clubs.
The clinics are open to all skill levels, from aspiring young players to those stepping on the pitch for the first time.
Nick Becker.
These free junior clinics offer the South Auckland community an opportunity to participate in football without barriers such as registration costs.
“Football is the global game. Kids are playing it in schools, clubs, parks and streets in every corner of the world,” Auckland FC chief executive Nick Becker said.
“We are working with NRF to deliver football clinics in our communities in South Auckland and beyond to create pathways, help build confidence, and bring people together through the power of football.”
“Our goal is creating thriving football communities.”
NRF chief executive Laura Menzies said the project aims to make it easy for youngsters to participate.
“We’re working with South Auckland community groups and clubs to understand what’s stopping people trying football, and removing the barriers so they can get involved,” she said.
“This programme will enable young people to give football a go and learn some new skills in a fun and welcoming environment. We’re excited to make these connections as part of our long-term commitment to helping clubs reflect their communities.”
Laura Menzies.
Football is the largest team participation sport in Aotearoa, with more than 170,000 registered players in 2024.
As the game continues to grow, Auckland FC say they will focus on ensuring access and opportunity are available to all young people, regardless of background or geography.
While this initial series with NRF will focus on South Auckland, Auckland FC’s vision is to grow the programme into other regions across Auckland, Northland and WaiBOP, particularly in communities with fewer resources or access to structured football development.
Community funders and key sponsors ANZ, Barfoot & Thompson, and Anchor have helped to fund the programme. Their support enables the clinics remain free and accessible.
The first clinic was to start in the last weekend of July, and run for eight weeks with eight different clubs in South Auckland to align with the school term calendar.
Each child at the camp will receive an Auckland FC training kit, player workbook and training from coaching staff.
Auckland FC and NRF say the programme is part of their long-term commitment to grassroots football and community impact.
This story was first published on July 25, 2025.