Small sided matches are seen as the way forward for youth football by the FA. We at the Leicestershire 9v9 League believe that this will help bridge the gap between mini soccer and 11v11. So kids can enjoy 9v9 at Under 11 and 12, before moving on to 11 aside.
Why 9v9? I hear you say
1. Less players on the pitch, so each player gets more touches of the ball. The extra time on the ball helps develop their touch and skill
2. Smaller pitch and goal sizes are more comparable with the size of the players. Less physical pressure to cover the pitch.
3. Less pressurised atmosphere, as it helps differentiate from 11 aside professional football. Helps to keep football fun.
It’s also ideal for those teams who can not get enough players to play 11 aside and don’t feel quite ready to make that big jump from mini-soccer to a full sized pitch.
Pitch and Goal Sizes
Pitches for 9v9 can range between 85 x 55 yards maximum and 70 x 45 yards minimum. 11 aside pitches can be adapted; if there are no 9v9 pitches available in your area.
Goal posts can be between 21ft x 7ft maximum and 16ft x 7ft minimum. 16ft x 7ft Portable Samba goals come very cheaply and are endorsed by Arsenal and Manchester united Academies, and are also approved by the FA for 9v9 Matches.
So please come and join us. We currently have 14 teams playing 9v9 at Under 11. We will also be running Mini-Soccer at Under 9 and Under 10 in 2008/09. Contact Manish Kalia (Fixtures Secretary) for any further details on 07917881601
(Currently the North West Leicestershire Youth League, name change subject to approval by LRCFA for the 2008/09 Season. http://www.leaguewebsite.co.uk/northwestleicestershireyfl/)