Farmington U-17s are well into their pre-season preparations ahead of their first tilt “proper” at U-17 level. Twelve of the current squad were members of last year’s U-17’s programme which was played up a level a year early to provide an increased challenge in the strong East/Southeast Region. The programme enjoyed a very positive season when considering some opposition players were 2-3 years older than the Forfar youngsters. Their achievements included a fourth place finish in the League, defeated finalists in the League Cup and Scottish Cup Quarter Final where they were beaten by the eventual winners.
With all of last season’s player’s re-signed, the development journey continues for the U-17s programme with several players regularly training with the Club’s Development and Premier Teams.
In keeping with the Clubs policy of developing talent within the youth pathway four players, in the shape of Erin Ross, Zoe Moreland, Ellie Cook & Anne Murie, have been promoted up a year early from the Club’s successful U15s programme to continue their development in a higher age group. Also bolstering the programme is Sally Patterson who will based in the U17s programme this season whilst concentrating on her studies.
The U-17s programme has continued training during the closed season period with midweek and Sunday sessions. These light hearted sessions have afforded the players the opportunity to maintain a good level of fitness and sharpness throughout of the off season period,
Stepping into full pre-season, work load has been increased with a gym session added to two outdoor and one indoor session. Sessions have been going well, allowing the “New” faces to full integrate with their new team mates.
This has provided an opportunity for the “new” girls in the team to familiarise themselves with their new team mates. In addition to this as the U17s march towards the seasons opening fixture on Sunday 6th March there are several friendlies set up to challenge the girls. The first of these took place this afternoon at Station Park when Central Girls U17s, arguably one of the best sides in the country, visited. This was a great opportunity for the players to test themselves against one of last season’s high performers, and identify areas of development to work on.