GRADING – What, Why & When is it. 

What is Grading and why grade.

Grading is a requirement from BDSFA for teams at the U8 to U15 age groups.

Grading is used mainly for the top 2 teams at the club. By attending grading your child is attemping to play for these teams. If new to the 

Grading is required every season and is open to all players in these age groups that wish to try out. Having played for the team previously does not guarantee you a spot the next season.

Grading is a process used to group children of similar skill levels to play for the same team and compete against similar skilled teams. It allows for teams to play competitively, evenly and more importantly for players to enjoy and grow in the sport.

The other teams remain together based on prior year, player requests to play with friends and new players joining into spare spots. For any child that has improved during the season then have an avenue next year to regrade.

Record your childs details before attending grading by using this form https://form.jotform.com/230361745827863 
This needs to be filled out on the prior day to the grading session for your childs age group. You will not be allowed to grade if not completed as we have to plan the session inadvance.

The Process

The grading process consists of two stages – Day 1 and Day 2, one week apart. You will only be called back for Day 2 if selected. If not selected  you will be placed in one of the other teams. 

Day 1 will consist of a few drills to test a player’s basic skills in soccer and for the U13’s and above a fitness test. This will include drills for passing, dribbling, shooting,  and movement of the ball and playing in a small side game at the end of the session.

The assessors will select the relevant number of players who will make up the top two teams. The first selection will be finalised by the end of the week at the latest. Successful players will then be notified via text message and be asked to return for Day 2. Unsuccessful players will also be notified but via email. 

Day 2 will consist of more complicated drills and a longer game. This session will be used to identify who goes into Team 1 and 2 with a few players still missing out. These players will be allocated to either there prior teams or a relevant team based on the grading. 

You do not need to be a registered player with the club to be graded on Day 1.

If you are called back for Day 2 you must be registered player with the club before your child grades on the day. 

Goal Keepers

Goalkeepers are a rare commodity at any club and across all age groups. If your child is interested in playing as a goalkeeper either permanently or partially, please let us know when filling out the form.  https://form.jotform.com/230361745827863 
We will be conducting some Goalie training prior to the grading sessions either late Jan or early Feb. These will be posted on Facebook and our website. 

When is Grading?

Grading nights are as follows