First Kicks

4-6th Grades

First Kicks is a New Zealand Football mandated programme that is part of the evolution of football in New Zealand.  It is a programme that is part of the ‘Whole of Football Plan’ (WOFP) that is specific to 4-6 year olds (those turning 4, 5 or 6 in the year that they play).


When do we train/play?

Saturday mornings from 11.00am - 12.00 noon on Wallace Park (the sports field next to Ruahine’s clubrooms), cnr Jickell St and Te Awe Awe St.The programme on a typical Saturday will consist of be:

  • 11.00am - Muster and assignment of grid groups at the RAFC clubrooms
  • 11.10 - 11.45am - Training in grids
  • 11.50am - Re-muster for awards, club notices and dispersal 

Note: The second and last weekend of school holidays typically don't have game days, but we'll keep you informed.


Who trains the players?

Coaches and helpers are volunteers from the parent body who will be overseen by a coordinator from Ruahine AFC.  We endeavour to support coaches and helpers with resources and insights, and link them with opportunities to upskill through Central Football as they become available.

Training exercises are assigned to the coach during the week prior to the game day to give them time to prepare.  First Kicks are split up into their age groups, and parents/children are also given the option for girls to participate in girls only grids or partake with both genders.

The duty coach is responsible for running a grid of 8-10 players. Each coach will be supplied with the training exercises to develop players skills. Depending on player numbers, 3 or 4 drills will be run each week along with a small-sided game.  Parents will be encouraged to support their child during these exercises in a positive manner.


How do I become a coach or helper?

Simply put your name forward - email us at info@ruahineafc.co.nz; and/or note your interest on your child's registration form.  You can register on the 'Join Us' tab.  Please don't be offended by the request for a Police vetting check.


When does the season start?

The season start and finish dates can vary slightly year on year, but typically starts with the first game day on the first Saturday of term two (a week after the school holidays), and finishes around mid-August.


Cancellations and Postponements

For cancellations and postponements, in the first instance please check:

How do I register?

It's easier than ever... simply go to 'Join Us' and complete the registration form.  Fees are collected through our registraion process by credit card or bank transfer.  And if you've got more than one child playing with us don't forget to apply for a family rebate.​​​​​​​

Please, please give some thought to how you can support Ruahine AFC and the fantastic community we have.  We are always looking for helpers (whether you can spare an hour or a number more).  You can email us any time or fill out how you can help on the registration page.

How much does it cost?

Check out our playng fees under the Join Us tab.  We have set-up our fee structure to try and help out families who have more than one child playing football with Ruahine AFC, and offer the opportunity to apply for a family rebate (discount) for all children who are from the same household (or you can choose to donate this for someone else in hardship).

​​​​​​​We believe in children in playing sports and how important it is for their development, and so if you're in hardship please contact us in confidence and we'll do our best to support you and your child.

What sort of kit do I need for my child to play?

Ruahine AFC supply a playing top for the season, which must be returned at the end of the season in near the same condition as provided.  We've put together a few care instructions and ask that you take due care and responsibility.  Other than this, all children will need to wear our Royal Navy blue shorts and socks, and shin pads.  For First Kicks players boots are not an absolute requirement... sneakers will be fine.

Note: If you're a bit unsure about investing in shorts and socks before joining Ruahine AFC, we'd much rather you brought your child to give it a go as opposed to be dressed perfectly in Ruahine AFC attire.  We won't turn you away!