As we welcome back another league season there is a real sense of anticipation around the start of the Central Development League this weekend, with the regional league close behind. After months of preparation, it’s fantastic to see the programme back in full flow, and a credit to the dedication and commitment shown by our coaching staff. The work behind the scenes has been extensive, and it’s already clear that the quality within the groups, bolstered by some excellent new additions, has lifted the standard once again. Just as importantly, it’s been great to see strong team chemistry building, particularly given the natural changes that come with evolving squad make-ups each year.  At its core, our TDP remains focused on youth development with a clear purpose to enhance individual development within a team setting so to see every team include players from multiple birth years shows that will always be front and centre ahead of creating an age group to simple 'win'.

While we aim to provide around 50% game time across the programme, we are clear that in the older age groups, opportunities will increasingly be earned through performance, attendance, and overall quality. Players will be challenged to adapt and grow, including experiencing different positions on the pitch, while those who consistently demonstrate readiness will be supported with opportunities to step into higher environments. This is all part of strengthening a genuine, visible pathway for our players.

This year, there will be an even greater emphasis on defining what it means to be an Onslow North Wellington TDP player. We are raising expectations around self-drive, ownership, and the importance of being an outstanding teammate. Over the past 16 months, we have been working through a clear five-step journey as a programme, and it’s exciting to see us now progressing into the later stages. Our ambition is simple, to be the leading youth development programme in the region. That means developing well-rounded athletes through a strong blend of physical, technical, and social growth, all within an environment that is supportive, enjoyable, and driven by people who want to reach their full potential.

To our players, my challenge this season is clear, maximise every opportunity. That means every contact, every training, every match, and every strength and conditioning session. But beyond that, it’s about bringing others with you, lifting standards, supporting teammates, and contributing positively to the environment every day. To our parents, thank you for your continued support and trust. You play a vital role in the development journey, and we truly appreciate the part you play. And finally, a sincere thank you to our coaches and team managers—your time, energy, and care are what make this programme what it is.

Most importantly, enjoy the journey. Have fun, score great goals, make big saves and blocks, and keep learning at the forefront of everything you do. Development is never a straight line as every player’s path is different; but together, we are here to support, challenge, and give everything we’ve got along the way. Please find some quotes from the head coaches below and I look forward to seeing plenty of faces supporting at hopefully a sunny Alex Moore sidelines and beyond - Tate Macpherson (Director of Football)

CDL U17 Mixed - Hayden Polyansky (Head Coach) & Miles Woodhall (Assistant Coach)

"This season I’m proud to be leading our U17s with Miles as we build on the foundations we laid last year. We're building a strong team culture and a belief in what we’re capable of and now it’s about taking that next step forward together. This season is about development, belief, and striving for more, both individually and as a team. I’m excited to see how far this group can go".

CDL U17 Girls - Henry Fisher (Head Coach) & Assistant Coach Wanted - Please Reach Out

"I’m incredibly excited to be heading into the upcoming season as the coach of the U17 Girls TDP team. My primary focus this year is to create an environment where the players can truly excel technically and tactically, ensuring they are fully prepared for the physical and mental demands of senior women’s football in the coming years. However, beyond the scoreboard, my goal is to foster a culture of integrity and leadership. I want to develop these girls not just as elite footballers, but as exceptional people who represent Onslow/North Wellington with pride and contribute positively to their communities. I’m looking forward to a high-tempo season of growth, both on and off the pitch, and can’t wait to see what this group can achieve."

Regional U16 Mixed - Arun Lamb (Head Coach) & Benji Holden (Assistant Coach)

"2026 will be another season focused on the holistic development of ONW players. I am expecting to see growth amongst our squad, and competition for positions within the CDL side. Benji and I are excited to continue to raise the standards, and work within a club setup that is supportive, and focused on becoming the best programme for youth development in Wellington. Personally, I am excited to see young talent shining through - and high standards exhibited, at training and at matches - home and away. The regional side will be a strong one, and will only become stronger as our training syllabus continues. As players, showing heart, commitment and passion means that you will grow as a player, technically, mentally and socially. Overall, I am very excited for the season to come, and excited to help each individual player reach their own goals".

CDL U15 Mixed - Steve Fullelove (Head Coach) & Tom Speers (Assistant) 

"Looking forward to pushing our U15 group onwards and upwards as they traverse key teenage football development years. It's a good mix of old and new players and I'm excited to see how far this group can progress this season. There will be some fierce competition in what is likely to be a very competitive age grade development league with teams from far and wide encompassing wide catchment areas. Our focus will be on being the best we can be, being serious about our learning/development, but enjoying ourselves as we try to play an attractive style of (winning) football along the way".

CDL U15 Girls - Aidan Hallet (Head Coach) & Elise Peet (Assistant)

"After our preseason sessions and tournament, plus getting to know the girls, I am excited to see what this season has in store for us.  My goal this year is to create an environment where the girls can really develop their skills and confidence, while genuinely enjoying being out there together. I want us to be competitive and fight for every minute of the game, but always show good sportsmanship and respect for others. If we can grow as players, support each other, and have fun doing it, I’ll consider that a successful season".

CDL U14 Mixed - Jeremy Young & Roslyn Doney (Assistant)

"I’m excited to be the Head Coach for the U14 Mixed team this year. With many of last season’s players moving on to bigger challenges, this presents a fantastic opportunity for returning squad members to step up, take ownership, and lead the team going forward.

Our focus this season will be on playing entertaining football that we can all be proud of. We want to be brave, positive, and committed in the way we play. Just as importantly, we are going to create a training environment where the standard is high and the challenge is constant — where training is harder than the games. This will give our young players the best possible platform to grow, improve, and develop into the best version on themselves. I’m fortunate to already know many of the players from the past couple of years, and I’m really looking forward to building stronger connections and getting to know those I haven’t yet had the chance to coach. Together, we’ll build a style of play and a team culture that not only develops confident footballers, but also helps shape confident, respectful, and resilient young people. Ki te tuaraki".

Article added: Thursday 23 April 2026