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 U8 football?

U8 football uses a 40 yd x 30 yd pitch with 12 ft x 6 ft goals.

How long is a U8 football match?

U8 football matches are 20 mins each way with a 5 minutes half-time break.

What ball size for U8 football?

U8 football uses a Size 3 ball in a 5v5 format.

What format is U8 football?

U8 football is played in a 5v5 format.

Are there offsides in U8 football?

No, there is no offside rule at U8 level to encourage attacking play and learning.

Under 8 Football Guide

Complete under 8 football template with pitch sizes, match lengths, ball sizes, and official FA guidelines. Download and customise for your team.

Download U8 Template:

U8 Overview

Format

5v5

Match Length

20 mins each way

Half Time

5 minutes

Pitch Size

40 yd x 30 yd

Ball Size

Goal Size

12 ft x 6 ft

Player Development Focus

At U8, the emphasis is on fun, creativity, confidence with the ball, and introducing team play in a supportive environment. A small amount of competitive events allows them to learn about winning and losing in a fun environment.

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: A full shirt, shorts, and socks set might not be mandatory at this age for all matches, it's common for clubs to have them for developing teams. Goalkeepers should wear a different coloured shirt 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

No offside rule at U8.
Referees encourage play and help explain rules to support player learning.

Substitutions

Roll-off/roll-on substitutions permitted at any time with referee permission. Players who have been substituted may re-enter.

Playing Time & Competition Limits

U8 players may play up to 40 minutes in a day during training or friendlies. Maximum permitted in competition: 60 minutes in a single day.

Competition Structure & Philosophy

Matches are for development only. No league tables are published. U8's can play in up to three trophy events per season.

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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