Questions parents ask
Everything you need to know before your child's first session.
Are beginners welcome?
Absolutely. We welcome children of all experience and ability levels.
Every session is positive and supportive. Activities are adapted so each child feels included and is challenged at the right level.
What should participants wear and bring?
Comfortable sports clothing, plus the right footwear for the session:
- Football sessions (indoor 4G): moulded football boots.
- Strength and conditioning: gym trainers.
Please bring a filled water bottle and any medication your child needs, such as an inhaler.
Can parents stay and watch?
Please drop your child off and leave. It helps the coaches give every child their full attention.
Once a month, we invite parents and guardians to watch a session and see their child's progress.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Our sessions are indoors, so the weather won't stop them.
If we ever use an outdoor pitch, we'll let you know in advance. Please dress for the weather on those days.
Can I cancel or move a session?
Football sessions
Your child has a set weekly slot, so please stick to that time. We can't move football sessions to a different slot.
We try to run mop-up sessions for missed sessions where we can, but we can't guarantee one.
Strength and conditioning
You can move a gym session as long as you give us at least 24 hours' notice. We'll do our best to fit your child in another slot that week.
Cancelling
Please give us at least 24 hours' notice. With less than 24 hours' notice, a missed session can't be refunded or moved.
Can we try a session before booking regularly?
Yes, as long as the session isn't full.
If it is full, we'll add your child to the waiting list and let you know as soon as a space comes up.
A trial is a chance to meet the coaches and make sure the session is right for your child.
How are small groups organised?
By age, ability and stage of development, so every child feels confident and is still challenged.
Coaches review groups regularly. We may suggest a different session if it would help a player progress.
Is strength and conditioning suitable for beginners?
Yes. It's always adapted to your child's age, ability and experience.
Sessions focus on moving well, building strength safely, and developing speed, coordination and confidence. It isn't about lifting heavy weights.
Where should we arrive?
Football and strength sessions:
Unique Performance Football, Unit 7, Back Glen Street, Hebburn, NE31 1NE
Mini Movers:
Castletown Community Centre, Grange Road, Castletown, Sunderland, SR5 3DA
Please arrive around 10 minutes before the session begins. A member of the UP Football team will meet you.
Jude will send arrival, parking and collection details when he confirms your booking.