Introduction to the Darlington FC youth set up

The Darlington Football Club youth set up provides a pathway from Under 5 football all the way through to the club’s Academy and the first team in the Vanarama National League North.

The club runs teams at the following levels in either the Russell Foster Youth League or the Teesside Junior Football Alliance:

Under 6

Under 7

Under 8

Under 9

Under 10

Under 11

Under 12

Under 13

Under 14

Under 15

Under 16

Under 17

Under 18

There is also a team of Under 13 girls who play in the Russell Foster Youth League.

The headquarters for the youth is at Eastbourne Sports Complex, Bourne Avenue, Darlington. Depending on the age group, training takes place Monday to Friday, with games taking place on Saturdays and Sundays, either on the 4G or on one of the grass pitches.

Most of the club’s coaches are qualified to UEFA B standard. All of them are DRB checked, and are qualified in the safeguarding of children and emergency first aid.

As well as professional coaching, the club also provides strength and conditioning training, futsal, dietary and nutritional advice, tuition on the laws of the game as well as life skills. The club has a philosophy of enjoyment through learning.