Mixed JDL – Junior Development League

The Sharks JDL programme is crafted to offer a clear and professionally delivered development pathway for young footballers across NSW, serving as a foundation for the National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s system. The programme follows a 36-week structure with a focused curriculum designed to equip players with the skills, techniques, and knowledge essential for high-level performance. This encompasses not only on-field skills but also attitude, behaviour, discipline, and the drive expected from young players.

The JDL currently caters to U9, U10, U11, and U12 squads, with each squad training three times a week and participating in non-competition matches on weekends against other JDL clubs.

All coaches are fully qualified with Football Australia and are carefully selected for their ability to coach at this elite level, particularly with the developmental needs of young players in mind. The programme follows a structured curriculum aligned with Football Australia and Sharks standards, and Football NSW conducts several reviews throughout the year to ensure compliance and support ongoing development.

To join the JDL programme, players trial at the end of each year, and the top performers in each age group are selected. For the JDL programme, the Sharks have an in-area policy, requiring players to reside within the Sutherland Shire. Given the strong pool of talent from local clubs, those who do not make the JDL squad are placed in the Sharks Development Program (SDP), the next tier within the club, offering training to players keen to improve and progress further.

As the JDL programme reaches its decade milestone, the Sharks are reaping the rewards through the pathways and talented players it nurtures and produces.

Thank you for your interest in the Sutherland Sharks FC 2027 Mixed JDL programme. Our 2027 trials are complete, and selected players have been contacted.

Players who weren’t selected are welcome to sign up for our Sharks Development Program across 2027. This programme is another potential way into our Mixed JDL squads.