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Warkworth AFC has wrapped up a busy and successful football season with more young people from around the area than ever pulling on the boots and enjoying the game.
Across every age group, participation grew and the club continued to go from strength to strength.
Warkworth AFC president George Moore said in the junior grades numbers were strong from the Under 5s through to Under 8s with Friday nights buzzing as families filled the grounds.
“Children played alongside classmates and friends, supported by dedicated parent volunteers who stepped up week after week. Even with large team sizes creating a few logistical challenges, the overall atmosphere was positive and full of energy. Many grades enjoyed enthusiastic clusters of coaches who worked together, while younger club coaches added extra flair with fun training ideas,” he said.
Under 9s to Under 12s also enjoyed another year of high engagement.
“Several teams built strong identities and connections, helped by parents who were passionate about fostering teamwork and sportsmanship.”
A highlight was the launch of the club’s first all-girls’ junior team in many years.
“Their season was a major success – on the pitch, socially, and through new support from Warkworth Snap Fitness. It marked an important step forward for the growth of girls’ football in the region and we will see a return of the Fantails and further dedicated girls football programmes next season.”
Youth football continued to develop strongly with committed coaches guiding players through the step-up in skill and competition.
The U13s earned a spot in the top tier after grading, showcasing the talent emerging through the club. Likewise, the two U14 teams had successful seasons – both coming second in their respective leagues.
The U17s capped off their season with a championship win, bringing home the 17th Grade B Division title and recently played in a 34-team national U17 tournament.
“Overall a fantastic achievement for them that reflects years of hard work and perseverance,” Moore said.
Senior football also enjoyed a revival, fielding three competitive teams for the first time in many seasons.
“The senior first team delivered a standout campaign, winning the Division 6 Harbour Championship. Other senior sides also performed well and helped strengthen the club’s football pathway from juniors to adults.”
Overall, the season brought valuable lessons that are now shaping an exciting new direction for Warkworth AFC next year.
“With strong participation and clear enthusiasm across every level, we’re now looking ahead to 2026 with a refreshed approach built around NZ Football’s Whole of Football 2.0 programme. The changes will bring age-appropriate formats, better game experiences, and more opportunities for skill development.”
Other key updates at the club include extending the in-house programme to U9, introducing five-a-side with goalkeepers from U8, refining pitch sizes, and transitioning U12 and U13 to nine-a-side football.
“We’ll be introducing a skills centre, initially for selected junior grades and offered as an additional weekly training with qualified coaches. Its aim is to develop players core football skills, nurture talent and support long-term development,” Moore said.
“Tournament teams will also be structured earlier and more intentionally, following excellent feedback from a trial experience the club ran for the Cambridge Cup in October.
“We’ll also be looking to increase our pool of volunteers and coaches, coaching clinics will be put on by the club early next year with the help of Northern Region Football and we encourage people of all ages to come along, particularly youth players.”
With substantial development at Warkworth AFC, it’s presently recruiting for a director of football.
“This new role is central to delivering a football structure and philosophy that supports both competitive excellence and community participation, from junior through to senior football for both male and female participants.”
Moore added, “While the club continues to grow rapidly, the sense of community remains its greatest strength. With improved pathways, passionate volunteers, and a renewed focus on development, Warkworth AFC is poised for its most exciting season yet next year, which will commence on May 2.”
