The squads for FMNC’s High Performance teams were held across October and Budgen oversaw the selection process.

“We’ve had some really good numbers turn out for the trials, especially in National Premier League and Skill Acquisition Programs and it bodes well for the season ahead,” Budgen said.

“The selection process has taken a little longer than usual based on the high numbers and the quality of applicants but that’s certainly a nice problem for us to have.”

Budgen said it was also a credit to the member clubs from the region for the time and effort they have put into their coaches regarding accreditation.

“It results in the good development of our local players, gives them a good basis and gets the players off to a good start for the footballing pathway provided by our High Performance squads and coaches,” he said.

“As a result of the unprecedented numbers trialling, we will be selecting academy squads which will underpin the High Performance teams.

“They will train once a week with scheduled fixtures during the season and players eligible for these academy squads will be notified in due course.”

FMNC club and referee development officer Justin McIntyre said the numbers trialling were a real positive for the zone.

“It shows that FMNC clubs are getting it right at the grassroots level and players are getting the benefits of that as they come through the system,” he said.

“It’s certainly shaping up as a good year ahead for the representative squads and we thank everyone who attended the trials.”

All selected players will now attend a fitting day on either November 11 (Taree) or November 12 (Port Macquarie).

A number of squads have begun training with the rest beginning in early November. The High Performance annual general meeting will also be held on November 8 in Laurieton. Contact the office on 6585 0351 or admin@footballmidnorthcoast.com for more information.

The squads for National Premier League (NPL - U13-U18 boys), Women’s Premier League (WPL - U14-First Grade), Skill Acquisition Program (SAP - U10-U12) and FMNC Academies (U9) are in the process of being announced.

They can be found on the Football Mid North Coast Facebook page or at www.footballmidnorthcoast.com/rep-info.