Accent on youth in Potsdam

Development stage
UEFA's youth competitions not only give young players a chance to measure their capabilities against counterparts from other countries, but are also seen as an important development stage for the stars of tomorrow. Indeed, many of today's world-famous players first attracted attention with their displays at UEFA European youth tournaments. UEFA currently organises European championships at Under-17, Under-19 and Under-21 levels, as well as a women's Under-19 competition.

Structures review
The topics that are being scheduled for discussion at the conference include the future of the UEFA youth competitions, and a review of the competition structures that UEFA has put in place. The organisation and funding of mini-tournaments – when, for example, several teams come together in one country to contest a qualifying group – will also be debated.

Coaches' role
The coaches who are charged with the task of developing and training young players will play a full role in and around the conference. Round-table discussions are planned with coaches from different UEFA member associations. The youth conference will be preceded by a UEFA forum for elite club youth coaches, which will cover topics such as UEFA support for club youth schemes, and measures to improve the bridging process between youth level and the professional game.

Marketing and promotion
While the coaches at the youth conference will also attend practical demonstrations, association administrators will give various presentations of their specific youth sectors, and look at ways how youth football can be marketed and promoted effectively throughout Europe.

Jubilee and draw
UEFA will also be highlighting its Jubilee activities, with particular emphasis on youth-related events, as the body celebrates its 50th birthday this year. The draw for the first qualifying round in the 2004/05 youth competitions is also scheduled to take place in Potsdam on 29 January.