The Relative Age Effect & Early Developers: What Football Parents/Coaches Need To Know

Crazy to think the kids in this pic played in the same team 

Dealing with early and late developers is still an issue in youth football.

And there is the phenomenon known as the Relative Age Effect.

The REA is a term used for describing how children born earlier in the academic year tend to have an advantage over those born later.

It all has implications for young players.

In our latest podcast we discuss the issues that can come for early and late developers and how parents and coaches can offer support.

We explore how birthdate can influence a child’s athletic development, opportunities, and potential pitfalls in the youth football world.

Whether you’re a seasoned football parent/coach or new to the game, understanding this area can be crucial for supporting your child’s journey in football.

We’ll also provide actionable tips to help you if you find you have a player who is impacted because they are an early or late developer.

To listen, search Shouting From The Sidelines wherever you get your podcasts

Photo credit: Croatian Football Federation Development Curriculum