Essendon Royals SC is delighted to announce that Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are now open for the first phase of our 2026 player-pathway programs across both boys’ and girls’ football.
2026 ESSENDON ROYALS JUNIOR BOYS NPL PATHWAY PROGRAM
Become a part of one of Melbourne’s premier NPL pathway programs. One in which we saw all 4 JBNPL teams compete in Division 1 in 2025, as well as provide numerous players to A-League and FV Academy teams and various Victorian State teams.
Register your interest now via the links below for positions in our 2026 JBNPL teams from U13-U23, as well as our pathway squads from our U8 Kangaroo teams through to our U12A Pre-NPL squad.
Overseen by our experienced football department of Vaughan Coveny (Head of Football) and Michael Curcija (Technical Director), players and parents can expect a high level of professionalism with a focus on player technical and tactical development built around a strong and embracing Club culture.
To register your interest for one of our 2026 JBNPL teams, please click on the Expression of Interest link below and fill out player details. Dates and times of trials will be communicated at a later time.

2026 JBNPL U13 – U23 EOI

To register your interest for one of our JBNPL or VPL teams, please fill out the form below.
IMPORTANT: ONLY PLAYERS NOT CURRENTLY AT ESSENDON ROYALS SHOULD FILL OUT THIS FORM.
2026 U8 Kangaroo – U12A Pre-NPL EOI

To register your interest for one of our U8-U12 Mini Roos and Junior Kangaroo / A teams, please fill out the form below.
IMPORTANT: ONLY PLAYERS NOT CURRENTLY AT ESSENDON ROYALS SHOULD FILL OUT THIS FORM.
Trials for our U8-U12 Kangaroo / A teams will be held immediately following the conclusion of the 2025 Season on September 9 and 11. Exact location and times to be communicated closer to the date.
Essendon Royals U8-U12 Kangaroo / A team pathway program benefits include;
- Year-round program
- Two Kangaroo/A teams per age group
- Some teams ‘playing up’ an age group during the FV season
- Minimum 3 training sessions per week
- Teams to compete in all the major preseason, in season and post season tournament competitions
- U12 Pre-NPL team to be coached by our Head of Football, Vaughan Coveny as their third session
- A clear focus on upholding strong Club values of respect, integrity, teamwork and good sportsmanship.
2026 GIRLS PATHWAY PROGRAM

After a promising debut season in the Junior Girls NPL (JGNPL), our girls’ pathway is ready to take the next step. Highlights of 2025 include:
- The U17s sitting firmly inside the top six.
- Competitive performances and statement wins from our U13 and U15 squads against long-established programs.
- A forward-thinking NPLW U20 side featuring several standout U17 players, accelerating their development for senior football.
We now invite EOIs for:
- JGNPL (U13, U15, U17)
- NPLW U20
A Note on Capacity & Timing
The period between the end of the current season and the start of trials is always challenging. We must balance unprecedented interest with the developmental needs of our existing players and the competitive standards of NPL football. Your patience during this process is appreciated.