BBC focus on changes to Kids Football

BBC Breakfast features changes in Kids Football following Youth Development Review.

With many Youth Leagues having already adopted the new changes to Kids Football, with more to follow over the next two seasons, BBC Breakfast went out onto the pitch to learn more.

Presenter Mike Bushell tested out a special over-sized goal, which demonstrates the need for changes in pitch and goal sizes for our younger players.

Watch the BBC Breakfast feature here

In 2010 The Football Association launched The FA Youth Development Review looking at 25 recommendations based on research and feedback from across the country.

After listening to the views of the grassroots game and the key factors they thought needed to be developed within local football there were two main proposals that will affect grassroots football - the player pathway and competition strategy.

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.

While with teams in the City of Salford League this week, Bushell spoke to The FA's National Development Manager, Nick Levett, who explained the thinking behind the alterations to pitch and goals sizes.

"As soon as you put kids on massive pitches, adults want to win and pick bigger, stronger and faster kids," said Levett.

"They'll get kids just to whack it over the top and when they get through to a hugh goal and a tiny little kid, there's no challenge for them and it's very easy for them to score.

"So in theory, with the changes to smaller pitches and smaller goals, you can have much more of a focus on technique and skill development for the future generations."

The changes within The FA’s Youth Development Review, which will be phased in from 2013/2014 season, will make youth football better for everyone involved.

This is about a modern, child-friendly approach to youth football, challenging the win-at-all-costs mentality that is stifling development and enjoyment for young people. 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.

To learn more about the changes that are taking place to the player pathway and competition pathway, and to watch our latest video, click here

Related News

View All