Our Philosophy
The Auckland FC Youth Development Club Partnership has expanded in 2025 to include a dedicated pathway for talented women, strengthening our connection with football communities across the Northern and WAIBOP federations.
Launching in September, the Women’s Talent Development Centre (WTDC) will work closely with local partner clubs to identify and nurture women’s talent. Led predominantly by women coaching and support staff, the programme emphasises fostering leadership and expertise among women in football.
HOW It Works:
Selected players will gain access to Auckland FC’s high-performance training environment through weekly training sessions and monthly Development Games at North Harbour Stadium. Delivered in partnership with New Zealand Football as a recognised Centre of Excellence, the programme supports holistic development both on and off the field.
The WTDC will initially focus on players born between 2008 and 2010, preparing them for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, and will expand to include to provide a platform for future participation in the 2026 FIFA U-17 and FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cups.
Women’s Talent Development Centre
Starting early next month (September), the Women’s Talent Development Centre (WTDC) will be led predominantly by women coaching and support staff, with a strong or similar experience in fostering leadership and expertise among women in football.
Youth Development Club Partnership
Auckland FC partners with Talent Development Programme Clubs within NRF and WAIBOP, establishing them as an official Youth Development Club Partnership and creating opportunities for greater collaboration in youth football development.
Looking Ahead
Beyond the WTDC, Auckland FC will introduce a series of women’s football initiatives, including a new women’s football festival and an ambassador programme to celebrate and promote the women’s game in the community.
AFCW Founding Partners
