X-cel Academy

What is Xcel Development?

Xcel Development is Ormeau FC’s specialist, skill-based football development program, designed to improve technical ability, game understanding and individual performance. Delivered in small groups, sessions provide focused, high-quality coaching that challenges players to develop their skills, build confidence and apply their learning in match situations.

Overseen by Ormeau FC’s Technical Director, John Bonner, who holds an FFA B Diploma and has experience as an FQA Technical Director, the program aligns with the club’s broader technical vision and commitment to developing players at every stage of their football journey.

Meet the Coaching Staff

Xcel Development is supported by an experienced coaching team with a range of qualifications and specialist expertise:

• Matt Styler – Foundations of Football 

• John Bonner – UEFA B Licence

• Sharna Rouse-Argiro – FFA C Diploma

• Thomas Cole – FFA C Diploma

• Dan Forbes – Foundations of Football 

• Sergio Yanez – Foundations of Football 

• Lincoln Brennan - FFA C Diploma in Goalkeeping

Program Structure

Xcel Development will operate throughout the 2027 season, providing players with consistent opportunities to train, improve and progress.

• Term 1 – 5 weeks

• Term 2 – 9 weeks

• Term 3 – 9 weeks

• Term 4 – 4 weeks

Program commencement dates, session times and age groups for 2027 will be confirmed prior to registration.

What Xcel Development Brings to Ormeau FC

1. High-Quality Coaching and Individual Development

Xcel provides a structured environment where players can focus on the technical details that make a difference on the pitch. Sessions are designed to improve ball mastery, passing, first touch, decision-making, attacking and defensive skills, and the ability to execute under pressure.

Small-group training allows coaches to provide individual feedback and tailor activities to the needs of each player.

2. A Stronger Player Pathway

Xcel plays an important role in strengthening Ormeau FC’s player development pathway, supporting players as they progress from community football into more competitive environments.

By connecting technical development with the club’s broader football program, Xcel gives players additional opportunities to improve, prepare for higher levels of competition and work towards future opportunities within Ormeau FC.

3. Specialist Goalkeeping Development

Dedicated goalkeeping sessions provide players with position-specific coaching to develop their handling, footwork, positioning, shot-stopping, distribution and decision-making.

With specialist goalkeeping expertise within the coaching team, goalkeepers can access focused training suited to their age, experience and stage of development.

4. Supporting Junior League Players

Xcel complements the development of Ormeau FC’s Junior League players by providing additional opportunities to refine their technical skills and improve their understanding of the game.

The program supports the club’s ambition to create a connected development environment in which players are challenged, supported and prepared for future opportunities in higher-level football.

5. Development Beyond Match Day

Player development extends beyond weekend fixtures. Xcel gives players the opportunity to work on specific areas of their game in a dedicated training environment, helping them build confidence, consistency and a stronger understanding of their individual strengths and areas for improvement.

Why Xcel Matters for Ormeau FC

Xcel Development is an important part of Ormeau FC’s commitment to providing quality football opportunities for our growing football community.

By investing in technical development, specialist coaching and a connected player pathway, we aim to create an environment where players are encouraged to improve, coaches are supported by a clear technical direction, and every player has the opportunity to reach their potential.

From developing fundamental skills to preparing ambitious players for higher-level football, Xcel supports our vision of building a stronger club from grassroots through to senior football.