The Japanese soccer youth system is a highly structured and competitive system that aims to develop young players into elite footballers. The system is overseen by the Japan Football Association (JFA), which implements a variety of programs and initiatives to support the development of young players at all levels.
The JFA youth system is divided into three main stages:
** grassroots (ages 6-12)**
** youth development (ages 13-18)**
elite development (ages 19-23)
Grassroots
The grassroots stage of the JFA youth system is focused on introducing young players to the game of football and developing their basic skills and techniques. The JFA offers a variety of programs for grassroots players, including school-based programs, community clubs, and JFA-affiliated clubs.
Youth development
The youth development stage of the JFA youth system is focused on developing players' technical, tactical, and physical skills. The JFA offers a variety of programs for youth development players, including regional training centers, JFA academies, and JFA youth national teams.
Elite development
The elite development stage of the JFA youth system is focused on developing players into elite footballers who can compete at the highest level. The JFA offers a variety of programs for elite development players, including the JFA U-19 national team, the JFA U-20 national team, and the JFA U-23 national team.
JFA Academy
The JFA Academy is a residential training center for young players who are considered to be the most talented in Japan. The JFA Academy provides players with a rigorous training program and a supportive environment in which to develop their skills and knowledge.
JFA youth national teams
The JFA youth national teams are the highest level of competition for young players in Japan. The JFA youth national teams compete in international tournaments such as the AFC U-17 Asian Cup, the AFC U-20 Asian Cup, and the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
The Japanese youth soccer system has been highly successful in recent years, producing a number of world-class players such as Takumi Minamino, Kaoru Mitoma, and Takefusa Kubo. The JFA is committed to continuing to develop the youth system in order to ensure the long-term success of Japanese football.