Central Development League

What Parents Need to Know

The Central Development League (CDL) is our region’s official representative (“rep”) football pathway. It’s designed for players who show strong potential, commitment, and a desire to develop at a higher level than standard club competition.

Here’s what parents should understand about the programme:

• This is now our rep football pathway

CDL replaces the old “rep team” model previously known as FTC, which was run by Central Football. This is no longer running and representative football is completely Club based through the CDL programme. Players selected into this programme are playing teams from the across the federation.

• Higher‑level coaching and development

Training is delivered by qualified, experienced coaches through Chris Greatholder’s Albion Coaching, ensuring players receive top‑tier technical and tactical development.

• Increased commitment expectations

Players train twice a week. This is a step up in intensity and responsibility.

• Travel outside Hawke’s Bay

Because this is representative football, teams will compete against other regions, which requires regular travel for fixtures and tournaments.

• Open trainings and selection timeline

Open training sessions will be held on Monday 16th February and Monday 23rd February, 4.15-5.15pm, giving all interested players a chance to be seen. Selections will be finalised in March.

• Focus on long‑term player growth

CDL isn’t just about picking the “best” players today — it’s about identifying those with potential and supporting their development over time.

2025 CDL Winners!

​​​​​​​Pre‑Academy 2026

The Pre‑Academy Programme is an open‑invite development opportunity for players across the federation. Any interested player can register to the Club and take part in the season training and development programme, supported by qualified coaches and strong training environments.

Across the programme, players also participate in three game days against teams from around the federation. These fixtures provided valuable experience, helping players test their skills in a competitive but supportive setting.

The Pre‑Academy plays an important role as an introduction to higher‑level development, preparing players for the next step in the pathway in the Central Development Leagues.

It has helps to identify motivated players, build confidence, and give families a clear sense of what representative‑level football looks and feels like.