The FA's FutureFit initiative lands this season and it's the most significant reform to grassroots youth football in a generation. At AFC Corsham, we think it's a step in exactly the right direction.

The framework was developed over two years in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University, studying more than 400 grassroots games from U6 to U14 examining how different formats affect how much young players touch the ball, make decisions and simply enjoy themselves.

The findings shaped a new format pathway that comes into force from 2026/27:

Age Group New Format
U7 3v3
U8–U9 5v5
U10–U11 7v7
U12–U13 9v9
U14+ 11v11

The two headline changes: 3v3 replaces 5v5 as the entry format at U7,and 11v11 now begins at U14 rather than U13, meaning every format is played for an additional year before players move up.

In the 3v3 format there are no substitutes so every child plays the whole time. More touches, more involvement, more fun. For our youngest players especially, that's a big deal.

Deliberate heading is not permitted from U7 to U11, returning from U12 onwards which is a change we fully support.
Ball sizes follow the format: Size 3 through to U11, Size 4 at U12–U13 and Size 5 from U14.

AFC Corsham has always measured success in player development and enjoyment, not league tables. FutureFit is built on exactly the same thinking. We're ready and very excited.

Full details at englandfootball.com/futurefit

AFC Corsham Football Club