Development League success delights League Chair
Southern Counties East chair Denise Richmond has reported an excellent first season for the league’s Development League.
With the campaign bubbling to a conclusion, the league has enjoyed a successful first campaign with 13 teams taking part.
A number of teams have used the league to help young players bridge the gap between youth and senior football, with players already stepping into first teams across the league as a result of their progress.
The philosophy behind the Development League is not restricted just to clubs, though, with referee development also key to the league’s aims. Nearly a quarter of the referees on the league panel are under the age of 23.
“We’ve been delighted with the league’s success this season,” said league chair Denise Richmond.
“It’s been great to see so many young players start to make the progression to senior football.
“The matches have been of a high standard and it’s great to see so many young match officials also making their way in the game in this environment.”
With a number of clubs showing interest in joining the Development League for the 2023/24 season, next season promises to be even better with the potential for two divisions and cup matches being introduced in due course.
