FA Rules & FAQ for Grassroots Kids Football

U7s & U8s — what to expect

• 5v5 format — Rolling, unlimited substitutions — a player subbed off can return.
• No offside / retreat line — When the goalkeeper has the ball, the opposition retreats to halfway before play restarts.
• No deliberate heading — FA rule for U7–U11 in both training and matches.
• Equal playing time — Coaches rotate the squad every match — development over winning.
• No league tables, cups or trophies — FA Youth Development Phase — results are recorded but not ranked.
• Match length — Two halves of up to 20 minutes (max 40 min) with a short half-time break.
• Pitch & equipment — Size 3 ball, 12 × 6 ft goals, 40 × 30 yd pitch, max squad 10.
• MSE training & matches — Training Wed 17:00–18:30 & Sat 11:00–12:30 at Whyteleafe Football Ground (CR3 0AR). Tandridge League matches on Sundays.

Player welfare & safeguarding

• All coaches hold FA-recognised qualifications, in-date DBS checks, and FA Safeguarding Children and Emergency First Aid certificates.
• We follow 'If in doubt, sit them out' for any suspected head injury, with a graduated return-to-play before the next session.
• Concerns? Speak to our Club Welfare Officer or email info@majorsportselite.co.uk. In an emergency, contact the police or NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.

Matchday essentials

• Arrive 20 minutes before kick-off for warm-up.
• Full club kit + shin pads (mandatory — no shin pads, no play), water bottle and weather layers.
• Stand behind the designated spectator line — never near the goals.
• Positive encouragement for both teams; no coaching from the sideline.
• Respect the referee — they're often a young volunteer.

Frequently asked questions

What age group is my child in?

Age groups run by school year. The cut-off is 31 August — a child who is 6 on 31 August plays U7 that season, 7 on 31 August plays U8, and so on. If you're unsure, just ask one of our coaches.

How long is a match at U7 and U8?

Two halves of up to 20 minutes (max 40 mins total) plus a short half-time break. Our training is Wednesdays 17:00–18:30 and Saturdays 11:00–12:30 at Whyteleafe Football Ground (CR3 0AR); matches are on Sundays.

Are league tables and trophies published at U7 and U8?

No. The FA's Youth Development Phase does not allow published tables, cup competitions or trophies at U7/U8. Results are recorded but not ranked.

What size ball and goals are used at U7 / U8?

A size 3 football and goals measuring 12 ft × 6 ft (or nearest portable equivalent). Matches are 5-a-side on a 40 × 30 yd pitch.

Is heading the ball allowed?

No. The FA has removed deliberate heading from training and matches for U7–U11.

What happens if a match is postponed due to weather?

The home club, league or referee decides — usually on the morning of the game. We notify parents and update the Fixtures page as soon as confirmed.

How do substitutions work?

Rolling and unlimited. A player subbed off can return later, which helps share game time fairly.

What kit does my child need on matchday?

Club shirt, shorts, socks, shin pads (mandatory), suitable boots/trainers, water bottle and weather layers. Goalkeepers wear a contrasting top.

What's expected of parents and spectators?

The FA Respect Code: stand behind the spectator line, encourage both teams, respect the referee, leave coaching to the coaches.

What do I do if my child is injured or has a head knock?

Tell the coach or first-aider immediately. We follow 'If in doubt, sit them out' and a graduated return-to-play.

Who do I contact about safeguarding concerns?

Our Club Welfare Officer — email info@majorsportselite.co.uk. Handled confidentially in line with FA safeguarding policy.