What ball size should U7 and U8 players use?

Under 7 and Under 8 players should use a Size 3 football according to FA guidelines. This smaller ball is easier for young children to control and helps develop their technical skills appropriately for their age and physical development.

What is the pitch size for U9 and U10 football?

U9 and U10 teams play 7v7 football on a pitch measuring approximately 55m x 37m (60 x 40 yards). This smaller pitch size ensures players get more touches on the ball and more involvement in the game compared to full-size pitches.

When do youth footballers start playing 11v11?

Youth players transition to full 11v11 football at U13 (Under 13) level in the UK. Before this, they progress through 5v5 (U7-U8), 7v7 (U9-U10), and 9v9 (U11-U12) formats to develop skills progressively.

Is there an offside rule in mini soccer?

No, there is no offside rule in mini soccer (U6 to U10 age groups). The offside rule is introduced at U11 level when players move to 9v9 football, allowing younger players to focus on basic skills without complex positional rules.

How long are youth football matches in the UK?

Match lengths vary by age group: U7-U8 play 20 minutes per half, U9-U10 play 25 minutes per half, U11-U12 play 30 minutes per half, and U13+ play 35-45 minutes per half depending on age. These durations follow FA guidelines to ensure appropriate physical demands for each age group.

What pitch size is used for U16 football?

U16 football uses a 110 yd x 70 yd pitch with 24 ft x 8 ft (full-size) goals.

How long is a U16 football match?

U16 football matches are 40 mins each way with a 5 minutes half-time break.

What ball size for U16 football?

U16 football uses a Size 5 ball in a 11v11 format.

What format is U16 football?

U16 football is played in a 11v11 format.

Are there offsides in U16 football?

Yes, the offside rule applies at U16 level. Standard offside rules enforced.

Under 16 Football Guide

Complete under 16 football template with pitch sizes, match lengths, ball sizes, and official FA guidelines. Download and customise for your team.

Download U16 Template:

U16 Overview

Format

11v11

Match Length

40 mins each way

Half Time

5 minutes

Pitch Size

110 yd x 70 yd

was 110 yd x 70 yd (full-size)

Ball Size

Goal Size

24 ft x 8 ft

(full-size)

Player Development Focus

The focus for U16 players is on tactical awareness, in-game decision-making, and learning to adapt to different match situations. Players are encouraged to refine technical ability while understanding the physical demands of full-size football.

Game Information & Rules

Equipment & Safety

Shin pads: Mandatory and must be fully covered by knee-high socks.
Footwear: Appropriate footwear is required. No metal studs on artificial grass pitches (3G/4G/5G). Moulded studs or astro football boots are recommended.
Clothing: For matches, players must wear the official team kit (shirt, shorts, socks). Goalkeepers must wear a different coloured kit for clear identification. For training, appropriate sportswear is acceptable. In adverse weather, players may layer appropriately, but hooded tops are not permitted during matches.
Jewellery/watches: For safety/FA rules, all items of jewellery, including watches and earrings, must be removed before a match. Taping or covering jewellery is not an acceptable alternative.

Laws of the Game / Offside Rules

Full IFAB Laws of the Game apply.
Standard offside rules enforced.

Substitutions

Roll-off/roll-on substitutions permitted, subject to referee permission. Players who have been substituted may re-enter.

Playing Time & Competition Limits

U16 players may play up to 100 minutes in a day during training or friendly play. Maximum permitted in competition: 150 minutes in a single day.

Competition Structure & Philosophy

Matches typically form part of a league format with a season-long table, alongside potential cup or knockout competitions. This balance of consistency and knockout pressure prepares players for older youth and senior football.

Disclaimer

The information provided in these templates is based on The FA's published guidelines for youth and adult football in England. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, rules and regulations may vary by county FA, league, or competition. Coaches and clubs should always check with their league or governing body for the most up-to-date and applicable rules.

These resources are provided by tactico for guidance and educational purposes only.

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