A reminder of the FA guidance reference the publication of results and league tables for teams playing from Under-7s through to Under-11s.
“This guidance is not new. As a result of significant consultation and research undertaken across the game with children [players], parents, coaches, clubs and league volunteers, The FA decided in 2012 to extend its implementation from U7s through to U11s.
“The feedback we got was simple – children are competitive by nature, they want to win and don’t need a league table or results section on a website to confirm this.
The decision formed part of the implementation of The FA Youth Development Review, a document spanning 25 recommendations based on research and feedback from across the country over two years and published in 2012.
The recommendations included reduction of pitch sizes, number of players and coach development.
Working together with a proactive attitude, adults can help develop a better learning environment for young people that puts their needs at the centre of the process.
Since its implementation there has been a 17.5 per cent rise in the number of teams involved in mini soccer.
“During seasons teams are allowed to play festivals where there are, of course, winners and losers,” added Ackerley.
“Teams can play for trophies in a true competitive style. What differs is that at this age, competition takes place in trophy events rather than across a season-long period.
“These positive changes have been put in place to improve enjoyment, fun and development of young players allowing more touches, on a better proportioned pitch with an increase of involvement in the game as a whole.”
What this means for young players
U7/U8:
Even the youngest children will benefit from having the opportunity to play for a cup, two or three times a season. This competition can take place over a two-week period and, for example, can include a knock-out cup event. This means that over a typical 26-week season, six weeks of this will be focused competition.
U9/U10:
As children grow developmentally and cognitively, the periods of competition can increase further as their views of the world start to widen. Therefore competition can now take place over a four-week period and, for example, can include group stages and a cup final. This means that over a typical 26-week season, 12 weeks of this will be focused competition.
U11:
Children can now start to understand whether a team beats them because they tried harder or they were better players, something they cannot often do before this age. This competition can take place over a six-week period and, for example, can include a Champions League style event. This means that over a typical 26-week season, 18 weeks of this will be focused competition.
Another thing when you get academy players playing in the same team as grassroot football teams do you think this is right if they want academy football go not 2
Sorry but guildlines not law
But do agree no need for results and tables at that age
What ridiculous rules are these. Why would you not post results. What pathetic people are commissioning this. Results should be shown for all games. Regardless of age. Its football its competitive and children and parents alike need to see results as it fuels them for upcoming matches.
Every age need results. What the hell are you talking about. Pathetic!