GLADESVILLE SHARKS FC
Junior Football at Gladesville Sharks FC
Ages 12–18 | Mixed & Girls-Only Teams
At Gladesville Sharks FC, our Junior Football program gives players aged 12 to 18 the opportunity to grow their skills, compete with confidence, and experience the camaraderie of team sport. Whether your child is new to football or has been playing for years, we offer both mixed and girls-only teams across all age divisions—from Under 12s to Under 18s.
Our junior program balances healthy competition with personal development. Players train weekly and compete in the North West Sydney Football (NWSF) winter competition, where games become more structured, scores are recorded, and team spirit is celebrated. As the pitch size, match duration, and playing format grow with the players, our focus stays the same: fun, development, and inclusion.
- Structured, Competitive Play
- Mixed & Girls-Only Teams
- Pathways to Senior Football
- Supportive Coaching Environment
How to Register
Joining Gladesville Sharks FC is easy:
- Visit our Registration Page at sharksfc.org.au/registration
- Follow the instructions to register via PlayFootball
- Be sure to nominate your child’s preferred team or age group (if known)
- Keep an eye on your email for team allocation and season start info
If you need help, our committee is always happy to assist—just email registrar@sharksfc.org.au
Expression of Interest 2026
Register your interest today! When team nominations open in February 2026, you’ll be the first to know, and we’ll guide you through the team registration process.
Game Format & Competition Structure
Junior players at Gladesville Sharks FC compete in the North West Sydney Football (NWSF) winter competition. Matches are typically played on Saturdays or Sundays, depending on the age group and division, with all games held on full-sized fields with official referees.
As players move into Junior divisions, football becomes more structured—with 11-a-side formats, longer match times, and formal league standings. Teams compete in graded divisions based on ability, offering the right level of challenge for all players—whether they’re playing socially or striving for a competitive edge.
Players can expect:
Weekly matches with scheduled home and away fixtures
Grading assessments to place players in suitable teams
Eligibility for finals and championship rounds
Fair play focus with a strong emphasis on sportsmanship
Training & Game Day Info
Junior teams at Gladesville Sharks FC typically train once per week, with games played on weekends as part of the North West Sydney Football (NWSF) winter competition.
Training
| Location | Frequency | Duration | Coach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morrison Bay Park, Putney (our home ground) | One training session per week, typically on a weekday afternoon | Around 45–60 minutes depending on age | Led by a parent volunteer with guidance and resources provided by the club |
Game Day
Game Day offers players the chance to apply what they’ve learned in a fun and competitive environment. Teams play in graded divisions, with referees, scores, and league standings. Every match is an opportunity to grow in confidence, build resilience, and experience the joy of playing as part of a team.
| Days | Location | Season Length | Game Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mixed teams:Saturday mornings Girls-only teams:Sunday mornings |
Local fields in the Northern Suburbs Football Association (NWSF) | April through August (aligned with school terms) | Varies by age (see Game Format section above) |
How Teams Are Formed
At Gladesville Sharks FC, we do our best to place players in teams where they’ll feel confident, supported, and challenged.
For returning players, we aim to keep team continuity where possible. For new players, placement is based on age, experience, and any friendship or team requests submitted during registration.
In the U12–U18 age groups, teams are generally formed based on ability and attitude, with some grading or assessments conducted if required. The goal is to place players in teams where they can enjoy the game, grow in confidence, and be part of a supportive squad.
Key Considerations:
Age group based on the child’s age on 31 December
Requests to play with friends are considered
Teams may be graded to ensure appropriate competition levels
Final teams are selected by the club.
Get Involved – Coaches & Managers
Gladesville Sharks FC is a proudly volunteer-run club—and our junior teams couldn’t function without the generous support of parents and guardians who step up to coach or manage.
Every team requires:
- A Coach – Leads training and guides the team on game day
- A Manager – Organises communication, game schedules, and kit distribution
No formal experience is necessary. We provide resources, guidance, and access to our Coach the Coach workshops, ensuring every volunteer feels confident and supported.
Volunteering is a rewarding way to get involved with your child’s football journey, build community connections, and make a real impact. Learn more
Gladesville Sharks FC Junior Football– FAQs
What age group should my child play in?
Players are placed into age groups based on their age as of 31 December of the current season year. For example, if your child turns 13 in 2025, they’ll play in the U13s.
When does the season start and finish?
How often do teams train and play?
Do I need to buy a uniform?
No. Every new registered junior player receives a jersey, shorts, socks, Players will need to supply football boots and a water bottle. Jerseys are to be returned at the conclusion of the season.
Can my child play with their friends?
We always try to accommodate friendship requests made during registration, though this may depend on team numbers and grading considerations.
What are the rules for substitutions and playing time?
Our club promotes fair play and inclusion. While playing time may vary in competitive divisions, we encourage coaches to give all players meaningful time on the field, especially in non-graded teams.
Are coaches professionally qualified?
Our junior teams are led by volunteer coaches, many of whom are parents. We support them through training resources and access to our Coach the Coach program, run by experienced professionals.
What happens if we miss a game?
Let your team manager know as early as possible. We understand life happens, and your team will adjust their lineup accordingly.
Do teams play during school holidays?
Generally, matches are not scheduled during the middle weekend of school holidays, but this can vary depending on the draw. We’ll keep you informed via Dribl and team WhatsApp groups.
When does the season start?
Registrations open in January, team placements happen in February, and training begins in March. The season usually kicks off in early April and runs through to August.
How do I stay informed?
All families are added to a team WhatsApp group, managed by your coach or manager. This is the best place for updates on training, game times, and club news.
Do you offer additional development opportunities?
Yes! Throughout the year we run:
- School of Sharks Holiday Camps
- Player Academy Skills Sessions
- Sydney FC Sky Blue Pathways Program
These are fantastic opportunities for kids to build confidence, learn from experienced coaches, and improve their skills in a supportive environment.