Football Club

WEEKLY FOOTBALL PRACTICE

  • Venue -  PACE Fortune Green Play Centre, Westhampstead, London NW6 1DR

  • Date - every Sundays 

  • Time - 3pm - 4pm

  • Age groups - 2 - 3 years / 4 - 8 years / 9 - 12 year / 13 - 17 year

For the 2025 Half term and summer holidays camp, we have limited spaces left, to book your child / children, please contact us via the contact form below, stating which days or weeks you are interested in booking

2025 SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMP  (WEEK 1 - 5) 

  • Week 1 - Monday - Friday - (28th July - 1st Aug)

  • Week 2 - Monday - Friday - (4th Aug - 8th Aug)

  • Week 3 - Monday - Friday - (11th Aug - 15th Aug)

  • Week 4 - Monday - Friday - (18th Aug - 22nd Aug)

  • Week 5 - Monday - Friday - (24th Aug - 30th Aug)

2025 OCT HALF TERM CAMP

  • Week 1 - Monday 27th - Friday 31st October 

ABOUT

Vinse Active football (soccer) club for all players ages 2 -18+. We focus on player development by implementing the best practices from top academies around the world. VAFC strives to create a fun, positive and competitive sporting environment for the young members of our community. We provide the opportunity for growth and development for committed young athletes by helping them create a passion and love for not only the game of soccer, but, most importantly, themselves.  

In addition to club soccer, we also offer a junior program and various seasonal programs throughout the year. Our programs are open to all players, regardless of club affiliation and skill level. 

MISSION

  • Pursue the highest standard in youth development by providing the best possible environment for player growth, enjoyment and character development within a unified and cohesive club structure.

VISION

Our vision at VAFC is to be a leader in the training of young soccer players and in the promotion of values such as teamwork, respect and discipline. We strive to be a soccer club that provides a safe and fun environment so that children can learn and develop as people, while also training to be great soccer players. We look forward to inspiring and supporting the future generations of our world and creating a strong and engaged community 

at VAFC.

CLUB PHILOSOPHY

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT
- Technical Mastery
- Highest tactical understanding of the game and its concepts

TEAM BASED CONCEPT
-
The team is the most important
- Building relationships built on trust, work ethic, and accountability. 

LONG TERM DEVELOPMENT
-
Provide a pathway for the player to have success in the game and in life
- Develop a sound base at the younger age, for the player to have success (winning) when competing at the highest levels
- To ensure the enjoyment and install a passion for the game

PILLARS OF THE CLUB 

  • HONOUR: players hold their team and the club to the highest standard.

  • RESPECT: win, lose, or draw all players respect the game, their opponents, the referees, and the club community.

  • DISCIPLINE: players improve through hard work and focus.

  • RESPONSIBILITY: players have an onus on themselves to improve and help others around them improve. Players aim to be the best teammate

  • PASSIOn: enjoy the game, players strive to get the most out of the game every day and in return will see the success the game can bring them.

VAFC CLUB CULTURE AND IDENTITY

VAFC club culture and identity are directly connected to our overarching club style of play and coach effectiveness. At VAFC we obsess over playing an attractive style of play that intends on dominating possession, creating scoring chances, playing on the ground and thru the lines.

Our club culture also dictates that coaches perform at a high level in the way they prepare and execute lesson plans, with a huge emphasis on player and team development. VAFC players know the level of commitment of the coaches to their development based on how much feedback and care they receive on an individual basis.

VAFC CORE VALUES

VAFC Core Values are an integral part of our club, they set the standard for behaviour and performance. Players and Coaches are asked to learn and live the Core Values to help them become better players and better people.

RESPECT

Mutual respect forms the basis of soccer. We hold in high esteem our sport, it’s values and traditions and always conduct ourselves with honesty and integrity. We earn the respect of others in the way we behave and respect all others that we come into contact with; our teammates, our coaches, our opponents, supporters and the referees. We value the facilities we use and treat each with consideration.

TEAM WORK

We welcome all new team members and include all. We believe in each other’s ability and expertise and work together to bring out the best in each other. We play selflessly: working for the team, not for ourselves alone.

AMBITION

We know that dreams are to be achieved. We actively pursue ever-higher goals and challenge ourselves to be better every day. We encourage our players to play without fear, to take risks and learn from honest mistakes.

EFFORT

Effort is a value that can take us to unthinkable heights and lead us to objectives to achieve our goals that may at other times appear distant or inaccessible. Dedication, consistency, sacrifice, and perseverance all hold the same weight.

EXCELLENCE 

We strive to be the best possible version of ourselves and achieve the highest possible levels in everything that we do through appropriate attitude and application.

ENJOYMENT

Enjoyment is the reason we play soccer. We encourage players to be passionate, to enjoy training and love the game.

CODES OF CONDUCT

At VA Football Club, we are committed to fostering a respectful, disciplined, and positive environment for all players, coaches, and families. Our Codes of Conduct outline the standards of sportsmanship, integrity, and commitment that define our club culture. By upholding these values, we create an atmosphere where players can develop their skills, grow as individuals, and compete at the highest level. Every member of the VAFC community plays a role in maintaining a culture of excellence, ensuring a safe, supportive, and rewarding experience for all.

PLAYERS GUIDE INTRODUCTION

The objective of the player guide is to help all players understand New York Soccer Club’s culture and key policies.

DAY TO DAY PRINCIPLES 

1.1 Players should always set out to BE THE BEST. VAFC players should strive for sporting excellence, give their best and be committed, on and off the field. 1.2 All VAFC players should strive for the best in their own development as a player, the improvement of their team and their own personal development as an individual. 1.3 Players must adhere to the weekly schedule drawn up by the Team Coach in relation to training sessions, games, and team meetings. 1.4 Players must carry out assigned duties as designated by the Team Coach. 1.5 Respect is a key element of the way we conduct ourselves. This includes the respect to: - Teammates - Coaches - Parents and spectators - Opponents - Match Officials 1.6 Players should extend this courtesy at all times throughout training and games. Demonstrating such respect and sportsmanship is mandatory.

BEHAVIOR

2.1 Players should always conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times. 2.2 Player misconduct toward each other (i.e. foul language, cursing, sarcasm, verbal or physical bullying) in training sessions or on match days will not be tolerated. 2.3 At all times older players must understand that they are an example to younger players and are responsible for their behaviour. Foul language will not be tolerated in their presence. 2.4 At all times players are expected to demonstrate a positive attitude and high energy levels as requested by the Coaches. 2.5 Players who do not conduct themselves responsibly or positively, should expect such consequences as: - at games, less playing time - at practices, being asked to sit out 2.6 Players should be respectful of all facilities used by the Club. The rules of the club and the facility must be followed. 2.7 Consistent poor behaviour will be addressed by the Club and may include suspension from training and/or games. 2.8 Players should look to always be supportive of teammates and not negative. 2.9 Similarly, behaviour of parents, family and friends should follow these principles, without exception

ATTENDANCE AND COMMITMENT

3.1 Strict punctuality for both training and games will apply at all times. Players should arrive 15 minutes prior to practices dressed and ready to train. Players should arrive at minimum 1 hour prior to games, unless otherwise advised by the Coach. 3.2 If it is not possible for a player to attend through illness or otherwise, they must inform their Coach as early as possible. The player should always try to contact the Coach. Messages via another player or parent are not acceptable. 3.3 If a player is running late for training, he or she must inform the Team Coach with as much notice as possible. On late arrival, players should respectfully go to the coach and inform coach of their arrival. 3.4 Game time is a reward for hard work, positive attitude and responsible behaviour at training and games. It is the Coach's discretion regarding playing time and positions. 3.5 Players who are late for games without a very good reason should not expect to start, and should not expect equal playing time. 3.6 The Club reserves the right to release any players who show a lack of commitment to the team. This may include poor attendance, non-attendance at key games and tournaments, and/or disruptive negative behaviour.

APPEARANCE AND DRESS CODE

4.1 On arrival at the fields, all players must be dressed in clean VAFC kit (no substitutes). 4.2 Kits include: Training – VAFC practice shirt/ shorts/ socks Games – Primary Colours. 4.3 Base layer/Compression wear should be either light blue or navy to match uniform being worn. 4.4 Shin guards must be worn for ALL training and games. The Club will NOT be responsible for any injuries incurred if a player does not wear proper equipment. 4.5 Players are encouraged to wear proper footwear to avoid injuries: studded cleats for grass and artificial turf shoes for turf fields. 4.6 Hats (including baseball caps) and ear rings are not to be worn at the training grounds, or on match days. 4.7 On the match days, players must wear VAFC warm up attire, trainers and kit bag. No HOODIES to games except in winter months as an underlay for the warm up.

COMPETING 

5.1 Players are rostered with the Club and hence available to play for multiple teams. While players may be initially selected to compete primarily with a team, the Club reserves the right to move players to other teams based upon the Club needs, team needs and player development. Players need to be prepared to train and compete with different age groups as required. 5.2 Participation in games is a reward for hard work, commitments and capabilities. It is the coach's discretion to manage game tactics, formations and player rotations. 5.3 Players may speak with the coaches regarding their playing time, position, etc. Parents are discouraged from having these discussions. 5.4 Substitutions - to improve the flow of games and assist in player development, a policy on the frequency of substitutions and a maximum number of substitutions has been instituted. 5.5 Training attendance - attendance at training is critical. Players may not replace team training for other events, clinics, etc. unless specifically approved by the Club. 

5.6 Playing Time - In league games, VAFC will follow the substitution policy. All players will be provided ample opportunity to play. However, commitment, availability, training attendance and performance, and prior game performance are all factors that impact a player’s playing time. Players who are not in game condition will play according to their physical limits, as determined by the coach. Playing time is at the discretion of the coach. In more competitive games, some players may not play in the game at all. In some instances, for away games players in the older age groups may not dress for games. 5.7 Ultimately, VAFC will field the team that the coach believes will be competitive and succeed. It is the player’s individual responsibility that they are able to compete at the level of their teammates.

LIFESTYLE

7.1 Players have an absolute duty to maintain a lifestyle that protects their capacity to play to the best of their ability. This requires that they follow a healthy diet, avoid alcohol and drugs and ensure that they have enough sleep. 7.2 Players ensure they get adequate rest and sleep prior to games. Players must adhere to the coaches guidelines and preparation requests. 7.3 Players who have their driver’s license must consider their safety and that of others at all times. All players must adhere to the 5 m.p.h. speed restriction at the training grounds. 7.4 Other than nutrition and sleep, players should ensure that they mentally prepare for training and matches. Players should come to all events ‘ready to go’.

PREPAREDNESS

8.1 Players should prepare for training and games in an appropriate manner. 8.2 Players will be required to do training at home, follow individual programs, and off-season training. It is the responsibility of each player to undertake the training they require to meet the team and Club standards. 8.3 Players should also take the time to review any homework assigned by the coach. 8.4 Players are responsible for preparing all their own uniforms, equipment and water for training and games. It is the responsibility of players to inform parents where assistance is required.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

9.1 Players should monitor their involvement in other activities with caution. This is especially important prior to games. 9.2 While younger players might participate in other sports, VAFC expects that players make VAFC training and games a priority. To achieve a level of excellence, VAFC encourages that football becomes the sole sport for those who want to play competitively at the collegiate level. 9.3 Players who attend games after another physical activity MUST inform the coach, and similarly should not expect to play as much as other players who are fresh.

APPROVED PARTICIPATION IN OTHER SOCCER PROGRAMS

10.1 Players are permitted and approved to attend training with Affiliated groups listed on our website, under the direction of the Club’s coach. 10.2 VAFC player participation with soccer programs, training and competition, other than VAFC: • Players may not train and/or compete for another Club or Program. (*1) • Players may not roster with a second club. • Players should refrain from participating in other identification programs, other than the VAFC Training Centres. • Players may not attend college ID camps during periods when teams are competing. Typically, these camps are appropriate in the summer and winter. • Players are required to participate in post-season Finals such as National Championships. • As per VAFC Development Academy rules, players may not tryout for another Development Academy until after their current team’s season is completed.

SOCIAL NETWORK

11.1 Players are permitted to use social media sites with parents permission. However, they must be mindful that journalists and the general public closely follow Twitter/Facebook accounts of certain individuals and their posts on other social media sites. 11.2 Tweets or posts (including pictures) may be reported on and reproduced on any media platform. Consequently, players must not post or tweet on subjects that could harm the reputation of the club, coaches, other players, administrators, match officials or governing bodies. 11.3 Do not post photographs of a sensitive nature (i.e. anything you would not wish to see reproduced in a newspaper). Pictures or videos of other team members must not be taken without permission from team members, parents and VAFC 

PLAYER MISCONDUCT

12.1 Player misconduct will be handled by the Coach and Club according to following guidelines. • Tardiness – less playing time. • Discipline issues – less playing time (persistent discipline issues may result in suspension). • Red card – to be reviewed by Club and up to 3 game suspension. • Unsporting/disrespectful behaviour at training and at games – immediate withdrawal from activity. • Training or competing with another club without express written VAFC consent – immediate dismissal from Club. 12.2 The Club has a ZERO TOLERANCE policy for more serious discipline issues such as bullying, racial abuse, theft of property, etc. Serious player misconduct issues will be reviewed by the Academy Director, an Independent Board member, and the Club Chair. 12.3 Parent misconduct during games (coaching from sideline, verbal abuse of officials, coaches, players, spectators) may result in the removal of the parent’s player from the field.

PARENTS CODE OF CONDUCT

As an organisation committed to the coaching, playing and enjoyment of youth soccer, VAFC seeks to promote the highest standards of courtesy, VAFC will not tolerate behaviour which brings the club, team, or game into disrepute. The Club believes that the attitude shown by parents towardAnyone who violates this Code of Conduct is subject to immediate dismissal from any game and disciplinary action up to and including being expI have read this agreement and accept this agreement as part of my commitment to New York Soccer Club and acknowledge the con sequences

DAD TO DAY PRINCIPLES 

1.1 Support my child with positive encouragement at all times. 1.2 Respect the facilities' rules, either home or away. 1.3 Assist your player by ensuring on time arrival to training and games. 1.4 Maintain good relationships with coaches by respecting coaches' decision making. 1.5 Control jealously and rivalries within the team, as a healthy team understands there will be competition for playing time and positions. 1.6 Refrain from expressing my opinion of the coaches or players in front of my own child or in a public setting. 1.7 Will not use social media to express any negativity toward anyone associated with VAFC. 1.8 Respect and adhere to the playing philosophies, policies, and rules determined by VAFC. 1.9 Video taping of training by parents is prohibited 1.10 Refrain from posting match footage online (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.)

TRAINING / GAME DAY BEHAVIOUR 

2.1 Maintain self control at all times. 2.2 Exhibit a high degree of sportsmanship, teamwork and positive attitude at all times when representing my child, the team and the club. 2.3 Refrain from coaching from the sidelines during training and or games. 2.4 Drop and go during training is preferred. 2.5 Refrain from using foul language. 2.6 Zero tolerance for racially motivated comments towards other parents, coaches, officials or opponents. 2.7 Accept defeat gracefully. 2.8 Refrain from questioning referees' calls. 2.9 Refrain from arguing or having confrontational dialogue with opponent parents.

COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL

3.1 Encourage your player (13+) to speak with the coach directly when discussing playing time, positions and any team issues. 3.2 Respect the 24-hour rule when dealing with issues and concerns parents may have and need to address with a coach (must wait at least 24hrs to connect with a coach following a game or training session). 3.3 Avoid writing lengthy emails about issues and instead request a meeting with coach or director. 3.4 In cases where players are being bullied or verbally abused by players or coaches, parents are to report incidents to the Coach and/or Academy Director.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

4.1 Pay club and team fees in accordance with required schedules. 4.2 Failure to meet financial commitments may lead to player suspension from training and/or games. 4.3 When registering, will read and accept financial responsibility policies in accordance with club registration.

COACHES’S CODE OF CONDUCT INTRODUCTION 

The Coach will always be the Role Model for the team and needs to uphold the CORE values of VAFC, the Team and themselves at all times Our core values include four key values that you should consistently review and implement. 1. COMMITMENT – Commit to developing every player and your team to the best of your capability. Coach in a manner you would expect the best to be coach 2. OWNERSHIP – Be the leader of your team and an ambassador for the Club. Be honest, be sincere, be confident. 3. RESPONSIBILITY - Be accountable to each other and most importantly to the players. You are accountable for both our actions and our results. 4. EXCELLENCE - Strive for 100% perfection and never compromise on quality or take the second best approach.

GENERAL EXPECTATION 

1.1 Coaching Is a Position of Trust. At all times as a VAFC coach, I will be a positive role model for my players and will maintain personal integrity and dignity at all times. I will develop mutual trust with every player, and treat all with fairness. 1.2 Be a Role Model Beyond Soccer. Soccer is a great opportunity to teach players positive values in life. Conduct yourself in a similar manner have a positive attitude, never use profanity, spit, make obscene or crude gestures, or engage in or encourage inappropriate behaviour or conduct at any point. 1.3 Create a Fun Environment Where Players Develop as Individuals. Strive to make every session a fun and positive learning experience. Players should look forward to coming to training and leave happy. 1.4 Be a Teacher. Being a coach is first and foremost a position to teach. I will strive to teach all players the technical, tactical, physical and psychological components of soccer. In doing so, I will also have the players take responsibility for their own development and actions. 1.5 Implement VAFC’s Club Philosophies. The Club’s primary goal is PLAYER DEVELOPMENT. THAT MUST INCLUDE ALL PLAYERS. Coaches need to ensure that practice sessions are focused, well constructed and meaningful, and appropriate for the level and age of the players.

1.6 Create Consistency and Clarity. Prior to the season, set the standards you require from the players for training sessions and games. Be clear and concise. Let them know training sessions are first and foremost for learning. Be consistent in the handling of issues. Do not ever embarrass or negatively criticise a player. Never demean or isolate a player for criticism in front of the other players. Always provide constructive feedback. Be consistent with all players at all sessions. 1.7 Enforce Sportsmanship. Uphold the highest levels of sportsmanship and fair play at all times. 1.8 Create an Environment of Respect . Show respect at all times to everyone we are in contact with – Players, Parents, Opponents, Referees and Officials.

ON FIELD EXPECTATIONS

3.1 Timeliness. Coaches should always arrive a minimum of 20 minutes prior to the scheduled arrival of players for a training sessions or event, and 20 minutes prior to scheduled player arrival time for games, to ensure adequate time for organisation and session set up. 3.2 Session Preparation. For every session delivered the coach should always ensure that a written session plan is designed following the VAFC Curriculum. All plans must be completed within stipulated timelines. 3.3 Dress Code. Coaches must always wear current VAFC coaching or other VAFC uniforms when conducting a training session and games. 3.4 Equipment. Coaches should always ensure that they have the correct equipment to deliver the session. The equipment must be organised and clean. Balls should be inflated. Pinnies must be washed weekly. 3.5 Safety. Coaches should always provide a safe playing environment for every session. This includes checking the playing field for potential hazards, ensuring goals are weighted down and that every player safely leaves the session with an approved guardian. No player should ever be left on their own. Coaches should ensure they have a medical kit with them and key emergency contact numbers 3.6 First Aid. Coaches should also ensure that they have the required first aid supplies at hand and that they are aware of the correct first aid procedures. Coaches must ensure players have appropriate gear to play or practice, including shin guards, proper cleats, etc. 3.7 Adhere to Rules. Coaches should be fully aware of the rules and regulations of both the leagues and tournaments that the teams/groups play in. 3.8 Referee’s Call Is Final. A VAFC coach should never question the decision of a referee under any circumstances. Coaches may speak with the referee in a calm manner at half time or after the game. Any discussions that are in any way confrontational are not acceptable. 3.9 Uphold Core Values. A VAFC coach should always embrace the values of positive coaching and ensure that fair play, sportsmanship and the laws of the game are always adhered to. When coaching a game – sit where possible.

OFF FIELD EXPECTATIONS

4.1 Ambassador of the Club. As a coach, your conduct reflects on the Club. A VAFC coach should place the needs of the Club above those of any specific team, At all times you are representing the principles and philosophies of the Club. 4.2 Equitable Treatment. Coaches need to avoid creating a scenario where any one member of the parent body receives additional or preferred access to the coach, including members of the NYSC management team. 4.3 Wear Badge with Pride. NYSC coaching uniform should only be worn when coaching or representing the organisation at a session, game or event. 4.4 Professional. Coaches should NEVER consume any amount of alcohol on the same day that a coaching session is being performed. Coaches should not be seen wearing any VAFC uniform when consuming alcohol. Additionally coaches should NEVER coach with signs of previously being under the influence of alcohol. Similarly NO SMOKING or consumption of recreational drugs. 4.5 Continue Learning. Coaches should be ‘students of the game’ and make a commitment to professional development as an ongoing process. 4.6 Be Timely. Coaches should always adhere to timelines that are set for administration tasks. 4.7 Social Network. Coaches should NEVER connect with players or parents through internet or other social networking sites/forums, unless specifically endorsed by the Club. Furthermore, no reference or information that may jeopardise the integrity of VAFC should be made. Coaches should be mindful of the interactions over social networks since this is directly attributable to the Club as a Club ambassador. 4.8 Media Shy. Coaches should NEVER discuss any element of VAFC, the teams, players or their VAFC role with the media unless authorised.