The club played it’s first U21 match on Saturday 10th May against Craigavon City. The squad comprised of players from the 2005-2009 age groups and produced an entertaining performance on the new pitch at Laurelhill!
Strategic Redevelopment Announced to Strengthen Player Pathway from Youth to Senior Football
Hillsborough Boys Junior Football Club is delighted to announce the launch of the first phase of a strategic redevelopment designed to enhance the player development pathway and build a stronger, more unified club structure from youth to senior football.
As part of this ambitious redevelopment, the club has officially created a Senior Development Phase, encompassing players from Under-16s through to the 1st Team. This new structure will bring all coaches and players within these age groups into a single, integrated unit, allowing for greater collaboration, player visibility, and alignment in coaching methods.
By operating as one cohesive group, the Senior Development Phase will:
- Provide a clear and continuous development pathway for players transitioning from youth football to senior level.
- Increase communication and consistency across coaching teams, ensuring that every player benefits from a shared footballing philosophy.
- Offer greater opportunities for talent recognition and progression, helping promising players move seamlessly through the age groups into senior football.
- Establish a more professional and structured environment, preparing players not just technically and tactically, but mentally and physically for the demands of adult football.
This structural enhancement is aimed at long-term sustainability and success at every level of the club, ensuring that Hillsborough Boys JFC continues to nurture and retain local talent while improving standards across all age groups.
Speaking on the announcement, Gary Devenney, Head of Football Development, shared his enthusiasm for the new direction:
“This redevelopment marks a huge step forward for the club. By bringing our U16s through to the 1st team together under one unified structure, we’re creating a clearer, more supportive environment for our players to grow. It will improve communication, increase opportunities, and most importantly, help us deliver a more professional and consistent development experience. It’s an exciting time for everyone at the club and a vital move as we continue building for the future.”
The club would like to thank all staff, volunteers, and players involved in helping to bring this vision to life. We look forward to the continued evolution of Hillsborough Boys JFC and to seeing the benefits of this redevelopment across all levels of our football community.
We are actively recruiting players born 2005-2009 to add this exciting squad. Contact Nick O’Neill: 07971 332001
