Community soccer in Doncaster East since 1967

New in 2027

High Performance Program

Launching in 2027, the Rovers High Performance (HP) Program is a premium player development pathway designed for committed players seeking an enhanced football experience.

Football for skilled players

Initially available to Under 10 to Under 13 players in 2027, the HP Program establishes the foundation of a long-term high-performance pathway at Doncaster Rovers.

Led by Doncaster Rovers HP Technical Director Nick Ansell, the HP Program combines the culture and community of Doncaster Rovers with a high-performance training environment to provide players with additional opportunities to develop their technical skills, game understanding and overall football performance.

The program is designed for skilled players who enjoy being challenged, are committed to their development and are looking for a more intensive training environment than our traditional community football teams.

What Makes HP Different?

The HP Program retains everything that makes Doncaster Rovers a great club while providing players with additional development opportunities throughout the season.

  • Dedicated coaching team headed by HP Technical Director Nick Ansell
  • 3 training sessions per week, inclusive of a specialist technical and game-based development session run by Nick Ansell
  • Enhanced training environment for ambitious and committed players with clear player expectations and development objectives
  • Opportunities to participate in selected tournaments
  • Competitive match program aiming for 40 games throughout the year

Program structure and fees

Program Fees

$2,150 per year

Program fees include participation in the HP Program, all coaching and training sessions, player development support and participation in the enhanced high-performance training environment throughout Terms 1, 2 and 3.

Uniforms will incur additional costs.

 

Training times

  • 3 training sessions per week – as outlined in information above (starting February)
  • Football Victoria Community Competition games played on Sundays (starting at the end of April)
  • Training Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays with times to be advised soon (it is expected that HP players attend all sessions)

Trials and Selection

  • Places within the HP Program are limited and participation is by invitation following the HP trial process.
  • Initial trial sessions for the 2027 HP Program will be conducted on 12 and 13 September 2026.
  • Details regarding trial schedule will be made available upon completion of the EOI process.

Expression of Interest

For further information or questions regarding this program, please contact us on HP@doncasterrovers.org

Frequently asked questions

Is the HP Program a representative team?

No. HP teams remain part of the Doncaster Rovers football program and participate within the club structure. The difference is the additional training commitment and specialist coaching provided through the HP Program and HP Technical Director.

Why are HP Program fees higher than standard team fees?

The increased fee reflects the specialist coaching, a more intensive training environment and dedicated weekly specialist training sessions led directly by HP Technical Director Nick Ansell. Nick also maintains an active role in the program's technical direction and player development across both training sessions and match days throughout the season.

Do players still play for Doncaster Rovers?

Yes. HP players are Doncaster Rovers players and remain fully integrated within the club environment.

What is involved in participating in tournaments?

HP teams will participate in selected tournaments throughout the season alongside their regular Football Victoria Community Competition games. A small additional fee applies to cover tournament costs, with details provided to families in advance.