Families in Forest Lake and surrounding suburbs have convenient local options this term for children wanting to try football or sharpen their technical skills. Lions FC is delivering junior programs at its Richlands grounds and across several local primary schools, catering to both absolute beginners and established young players.
Lions FC’s Term 3 after-school program operates directly at Forest Lake, Grand Avenue, Middle Park, Oxley, and Carole Park state schools. Designed for primary students from Prep to Year 6, the initiative allows children to pick up a ball for the first time in a familiar, comfortable setting.
These sessions focus on essential fundamentals—including kicking, dribbling, ball control, and stopping—while fostering teamwork and communication. Lions FC community programs coordinator Nathan Shepherd noted that the beginner stream prioritises fun and active engagement, offering a low-pressure entry point before families decide whether to commit to the sport long-term.
Extra touches for children already playing
This grassroots approach mirrors broader initiatives by Football Queensland, which delivers school programs, holiday clinics, and introductory activities statewide. However, for players seeking more advanced instruction alongside their standard team commitments, Lions FC also runs the Lions Elite Football Development (LEFD) program at its Richlands facilities.
Open to children aged six to 13—including those registered with other clubs—the LEFD Term 3 program offers flexible five- and 10-week options running from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Shepherd explained that LEFD complements rather than replaces regular team training.
With smaller training groups, the program gives players significantly more time on the ball to refine individual techniques that often get overlooked during tactical team sessions.
A local pathway with room to grow
Together, the two programs create a seamless local pathway. Beginners can comfortably learn the basics right after class, while more experienced players can access specialised development nearby.
For Forest Lake families, the primary advantage is accessible, organised physical activity close to home, with Football Queensland’s FQ Academy providing a clear bridge to representative football should players wish to progress further.
Parents can check or follow the Lions FC social sites for current registration details and session schedules.
Published 1-Aug-2026
