Pre EDC

Pre EDC, a new football programme for boys and girls aged 5 – 11, launching as the entry point into Oxford United in the Community’s Elite Development Football Pathway.

The Pre EDC provides a more age-specific and development-focused environment for young players who are keen to learn, improve, and take their first steps into a structured Football Development pathway. The programme is designed to be accessible and welcoming, while offering clear opportunities for progression as players grow in confidence and ability and this ensures a more consistent and aligned development experience for players. With the Pre EDC being part of the Elite Development Pathway, this will now mean players will follow a clear, connected programme from their earliest involvement, with coaching practices, session content, and expectations aligned across each stage of the pathway. This consistency allows players to develop at the right pace, with smoother progression opportunities as they move through the pathway in future years.

The Pre EDC gives players their first opportunity to engage with the Elite Development pathway, supporting those who show enthusiasm, commitment, and a love for the game, with the long-term aim of progressing into our Elite Development Centre (EDC) when they are ready.

Players involved in Pre EDC will benefit from the following:

· Age groups being closely aligned in U6/U7, U8/U9 & U10/U11.

· Coaching delivered by Oxford United in the Community coaches, who are minimum FA qualified and have up to date qualifications including Safeguarding, First Aid and Enhanced DBS checks.

· Sessions tailored to specific age groups and stages of development

· A clear and supportive progression pathway towards the Elite Development Centres

· A strong focus on fun and engaging sessions that will focus on fundamental skills

· A positive, inclusive, and player-centred learning environment aligned with Oxford United’s football Pathway.

Pre EDC acts as a supportive bridge between grassroots football and the Elite Development squads, ensuring players are introduced to the pathway at the right time and in the right way and will ensure every player can still play grassroots football.

Sessions are currently running on Wednesdays at the following venues:

· The Oxford United Training Ground

· Witney ATP