Expressions of interest to trial for the Thistles Acceleration Program (TAP) for 2025 are now
open to new players to Thistles and current Thistles players new to the TAP program. TAP
provides local players the opportunity to experience the highest quality training without the
need to travel outside of the area multiple times per week.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR TRIALS
If your child aims to play at a high level and develop to the best of their ability – without
having to travel outside the area every week – TAP is the right program for you.
The program is for girls aged 9-13 years old and boys aged 9-12 years old.
In 2023 Lismore Thistles identified the need for an elite junior development program to
service the players of Lismore to improve their ability and to provide a potential pathway to
elite football.
Determined to offer players a local alternative, the TAP was modelled on professional club
academies and was an integral part of rebuilding Lismore Thistles after the devastating
floods, with specialist coaching from former Australian champion and Northern NSW Coach
of the Year, Chris Layland.
Layland has coached current A-League and Australian U23 national players and holds
connections at A-League Academies and NPL clubs in the city. He has organised multiple
trials for players at these clubs resulting in many being offered contracts.
TAP focuses on the four core skills of development and the GIG methodology as per the
Football Australia curriculum. Football skills are the foundation of the program with further
emphasis on developing self-disciple, a winning attitude, resilience, emotional stability, and
self-respect and worth.
As well as future elite players, Lismore Thistles coach to create well-rounded children who
will develop into positive citizens as adults.
Team Information
Players who are selected will play in the highest possible competition while keeping travel to
a minimum.
U9s: will play in the local competition and participate in SAP Gala Days
U10s & U11s: will play in the SAP competition
U12s: will play in Football Far North Coast Division 1
U11 Girls & U13 Girls: will play in Football Far North Coast Competition
The program consists of two training session per week plus a game on Saturday morning
(except U13 Girls who play on Sunday or a Friday night). Teams will also participate in gala
days when applicable.
Trials start in February 2025. Click here to register for new players
For more information please call Chris Layland on 0403 926 132