Developing the Next Generation of Elgin Rangers Players

One of the proudest aspects of Elgin Rangers FC is the commitment to developing young footballers from within the Moray community. The club's youth and academy setup provides structured football for players from primary school age right through to the senior squad — giving every talented youngster a genuine pathway to first-team football.

Age Groups & Teams

Elgin Rangers FC runs youth teams across multiple age categories, ensuring players receive age-appropriate coaching, game time, and development at every stage of their journey:

  • Under-7s & Under-8s (Mini Kickers): Fun, non-competitive football focused entirely on ball skills, movement, and enjoying the game.
  • Under-9s to Under-12s: Small-sided games with an emphasis on technical development, teamwork, and building football intelligence.
  • Under-13s to Under-16s: Competitive league football with structured coaching sessions. Players begin to develop tactical understanding and position-specific skills.
  • Under-18s (Youth First Team): The final step before senior football, playing in competitive youth leagues across the region.

The Coaching Philosophy

Every coach within the Elgin Rangers youth setup holds a minimum Scottish FA coaching qualification. The club follows a player-centred development philosophy — meaning the focus is always on the long-term growth of the individual, not just winning games. Key values instilled from an early age include:

  1. Respect for teammates, opponents, and officials
  2. Hard work and resilience
  3. Creativity and confidence on the ball
  4. Understanding of the game as a collective effort

Progressing to the First Team

Several players currently representing the Elgin Rangers first team came through the club's own youth system — a source of immense pride for everyone associated with the club. The journey from Under-7 Mini Kicker to first-team debut is absolutely achievable, and the academy exists to make that path as clear and supportive as possible.

How to Register Your Child

If you have a child aged 6–18 who is interested in joining the Elgin Rangers FC youth setup, we'd love to hear from you. Training sessions take place throughout the week at various locations across Elgin, with qualified coaches overseeing all age groups.

Get in touch via the Contact page for trial information, registration details, and upcoming open training dates. No experience is necessary — all abilities are welcome.