our club runs both programs, and during the trials the 'best' kids were picked for SAP and the ones that just missed out went into NET.Originally Posted by londonboy
NET has more kids on the park and is on a bigger field. Our club def picked some kids who were good enough to play SAP, but they thought they would benefit from playing on the bigger field and having more space to work. SAP fields def require a bit more close control skills and the passing needs to be more precise.
one coach explained it as if you were looking for a team of wingers and backs you'd go to NET as those players who can run rapid with good control/crossing etc def benefit from the extra space. SAP def benefits the centre mids and technical strikers who need to work a bit more to get a shot away.
our club has made sure to explain very loudly and very clearly that SAP isnt 'better' than NET. All players picked are there for a reason and that everyone in every program is expected to represent the club to the set standards. which is brilliant because i def heard some parents at the trials comment they didnt want their kid playing NET.
over time all the kids will merge back into the NPL level and i doubt there will be a huge gap in quality by 14's esp when you need a diverse set of skills in your team by then. the best kids who have the best work ethic and motivation will be the ones who get there, development program or not.
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