Some really interesting observations from inside and outside of FTC. All agreed, it is not perfect. I would suggest that the lack of recognition of our male players by the national selectors show the program is far from it.
The best players involved? Not above the 13 / 14th grades. Some but not all. Observing the lack of commitment of those there (as per Shushy6) is a worry. Are they just going over the same things they have done for the last few years. If so it is not surprising they are getting bored and disillusioned.
Even more worrying is Mainland's contention that theirs is the only way. If APFA showed anything it was that they could develop players through to International recognition and get players off shore. Similarly "Up North" it is the players in other programs getting those opportunities. Cory Brown (Nelson) our sole representative in the last 17's trained and played in Wellington (Ole).
APFA moving up to join The Phoenix and Scots College will surely see our very best youngsters following.
I would rather see Mainland concentrate on organising quality playing opportunities for all club players. Encouraging clubs to develop programs to include all their committed youngsters. Giving the most promising opportunities to "Bench - Mark" their abilities against the other Federations or Provinces especially in the North.
What is the best way? APFA unacceptable, the Burnley way is apparently no good but currently they are happy to promote The Arsenal way. Heaven help Tsetso if he intends setting up an Arsenal Football School. How long before they shut that one down? One thing is certain, currently if FTC is "The Best Way" we can offer then we have real problems.
Worst of all, nothing they do seems to support their clubs efforts. For the last 5 years they have isolated our players from competition with the North Island. They really dropped the ball, literally isolating the South Island. NZ Football did not do it, they did it themselves.
A number of clubs have shown initiatives, picked up the ball, sought out opportunities and worked hard to prepare squads for such ventures. The main barrier to preparation is accessing their own registered players, as FTC commitments are once again supposed to get precedence even through the off season.
Bring on the review