Football Size Guide banner showing different ball sizes for youth and adult players, helping schools and PE teachers choose the right football for each age group.

Top banner for the Football Size Guide featuring footballs in multiple sizes to help coaches, teachers and players find the correct match and training ball.

Football Size Guide header image displaying a range of football sizes designed to support schools, clubs and PE staff in selecting the right ball for every age.

Football Size Guide: Sizes for Footballs, Goals, and Pitches Explained

In school football, using the right sizes for balls, goals and pitches helps players develop skills safely and fairly. As students move through different age groups, the equipment and playing areas gradually increase in size, leading up to the full-size balls, goals and pitches used at under-18 level. This guide has also been updated to reflect the latest Football Association (FA) guidance on football sizes, helping schools, teachers and coaches stay aligned with current recommendations. Bringing together the key measurements in one place, this guide makes it easy to set up training sessions and matches with confidence.

Looking for some quick answers to common football questions?

From choosing the right ball, goal, or pitch size to understanding the basics of the game, we’ve pulled together answers to the questions we hear most. If you’re looking for quick, straightforward guidance, you’ll find it here.

Jump to FAQs

Football Ball Sizes

Choosing the right equipment starts with knowing how school year groups line up with youth football age groups. This section makes it easy to see which teams fall into each bracket and which football ball sizes they should be using. By matching age groups with the correct gear, schools can set up training and matches that are safe, enjoyable and in line with national guidelines.

The size chart below shows the official football sizes and age ranges to help you pick the perfect match for your pupils.

Football size guide for schools and PE teachers showing Size 2 football for ages 3–6, Size 3 football for ages 6–9, Size 4 football for ages 9–14, and Size 5 football for ages 14+. Helps educators choose the right ball for age and skill level.

England - FA Football Size Guide

Football sizes in England change as players progress through the junior age groups. The FA pathway moves from a smaller Size 3 football for younger players, to Size 4, before introducing the standard Size 5 ball for older junior football.

Size 3 Football - U7–U11 (Years 2-6)

A Size 3 football is recommended for younger players from Under-7 to Under-11 in England. Its smaller size makes it easier for children to control, pass and dribble while developing their technique during the early stages of junior football.

For school-age players, this broadly covers Years 2 to 6.

Size 4 Football – U12–U13 (Years 7–8)

Players move to a Size 4 football at Under-12 and Under-13. Slightly larger and heavier than a Size 3, it helps players adjust gradually as they develop greater strength, power and control.

This generally corresponds with Years 7 and 8.

Size 5 Football – U14+ (Year 9+)

From Under-14 onwards, players use a full-size Size 5 football. This is the standard ball size used in adult and professional football and helps older junior players prepare for the physical and technical demands of the full game.

This generally applies from Year 9 onwards.

Guidance based on Football Association junior football recommendations. Competition rules and formats may be updated, so always check the latest FA guidance.

Scotland - Scottish FA Football Size Guide

Football size guidance in Scotland follows a gradual progression through Sizes 3, 4 and 5. There are also some differences between boys' football and Scottish Women's Football at certain age groups.

Size 3 Football – U6–U8

A Size 3 football is used for the youngest age groups in Scottish football, covering Under-6 to Under-8.

The smaller ball is well suited to young players learning fundamental skills such as close control, dribbling and passing.

Girls' Football – U9–U11

Scottish Women's Football guidance also uses a Size 3 football for girls at Under-9, Under-10 and Under-11, allowing younger players to continue developing with a smaller ball before progressing to Size 4.

Size 4 Football – U9–U13

For boys, a Size 4 football is generally used from Under-9 through to Under-13.

It provides a natural step up from Size 3, introducing a larger and slightly heavier ball as players become stronger and more technically developed.

For girls, Size 4 is used from Under-12, and continues through Under-14 and Under-15 under Scottish Women's Football guidance.

Size 5 Football – U14+ Boys / U16+ Girls

Boys progress to a full-size Size 5 football from Under-14, while girls move to Size 5 from Under-16.

Size 5 is the standard football used in the adult game and prepares older junior players for senior football.

Guidance based on Scottish Football Association and Scottish Women's Football recommendations. Always check the latest competition regulations.

Wales - FAW Football Size Guide

Junior football in Wales progresses through Sizes 3, 4 and 5 as players move through the age groups. Using an appropriate ball size helps young players develop technique before progressing to a full-size football.

Size 3 Football – U6–U9

A Size 3 football is recommended for younger junior players from Under-6 to Under-9 in Wales.

Its smaller circumference makes the ball easier to control and allows younger children to develop passing, dribbling and shooting technique more effectively.

Size 4 Football – U10–U13

Players move to a Size 4 football from Under-10 through to Under-13.

The increased size and weight provide a useful transition between early junior football and the standard full-size ball used by older age groups.

Size 5 Football – U14+ (Year 9+)

From Under-14 onwards, FAW junior football uses a Size 5 football.

This is the standard full-size football used in adult and professional matches and is suitable for older junior players as they progress towards the senior game.

For school-age players, Under-14 broadly corresponds with Year 9 onwards.

Guidance based on Football Association of Wales junior football regulations. Always check the latest FAW competition rules for your age group.

Northern Ireland - Irish FA Football Size Guide

The Irish FA junior pathway introduces progressively larger footballs as players develop, moving from Size 3 to Size 4 and then to the standard Size 5 football.

Size 3 Football – U6–U8

A Size 3 football is used for younger players from approximately Under-6 to Under-8.

The smaller ball is easier for young children to manipulate and is well suited to early small-sided football, helping players develop their touch, passing and dribbling skills.

Size 4 Football – U9–U13

Players then progress to a Size 4 football, which is commonly used through the middle junior age groups up to Under-13.

Its larger size provides an important transition as players become stronger and begin to play more advanced forms of the game.

Size 5 Football – U14+

From Under-14 onwards, players use a full-size Size 5 football.

This is the standard size used in adult football and allows older junior players to become accustomed to the ball they will use as they progress into senior competition.

Guidance based on Irish Football Association youth football recommendations. Individual leagues and competitions should always check the latest Irish FA regulations.

Republic of Ireland - FAI Football Size Guide

The Football Association of Ireland takes a different approach to junior football sizes.

Rather than progressing from Size 3 to Size 4 and then Size 5, younger players use Size 5 footballs with reduced weights. The weight of the football gradually increases as players get older, before they progress to a standard-weight Size 5 ball.

Size 5 Lightweight Football – U6–U8 – 290g

Players from Under-6 to Under-8 use a lightweight Size 5 football weighing approximately 290g.

The reduced weight makes the ball easier for younger children to control and strike while allowing them to become familiar with the dimensions of a Size 5 football from an early age.

Size 5 Lightweight Football – U9–U11 – 320g

From Under-9 to Under-11, players use a Size 5 football weighing approximately 320g.

The slightly increased weight provides a gradual progression as players develop more strength, control and kicking technique.

Size 5 Lightweight Football – U12–U14 – 370g

layers from Under-12 to Under-14 progress to a Size 5 football weighing approximately 370g.

This heavier junior ball helps bridge the gap between lightweight developmental footballs and the standard adult match ball.

Size 5 Standard Weight Football – U15+

From Under-15 onwards, players move to a standard-weight Size 5 football.

This is the same full-size ball format used for senior and adult football.

Guidance reflects the FAI Player Development Plan approach to age-appropriate football weights. Clubs and leagues should check the latest Football Association of Ireland regulations for competition-specific requirements.

Browse Our Range of Footballs

Now that you know the correct football ball sizes for each age group, you can browse our full range of Mitre footballs here.

We even colour-code our white footballs by size, making it easier for coaches and teachers to choose the right ball for training and matches.

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Football Goals, Pitch Sizes & Team Formats

Just like football sizes, goal dimensions and pitch sizes should match the age and stage of the players. Using the appropriate goal size, pitch dimensions, and match format helps young footballers develop skills, build confidence, and enjoy the game in a realistic and manageable environment. This guide outlines the FA-recommended goal sizes, pitch measurements, and team formats for each age group, ensuring training sessions and matches are safe, fun, and developmentally appropriate from mini-soccer through to full 11-a-side football.

The guide below outlines the recommended football goal, pitch, and team sizes for each school year and age group, helping you choose the right setup for your pupils.

Illustrated guide showing football pitch dimensions for schools, including goalpost sizes for age groups, pitch markings, and layout tips. Designed to help PE teachers choose appropriate equipment and set up pitches for different school levels.

Reception-Year 2 (U5-U7) – 3-a-Side Football

Recommended Goal Size: 4ft x 2.5ft

Pitch Size: 15yd x 10yd

For U5-U7 football, matches are played in a 3-a-side format using 4ft x 2.5ft goals on a 15 by 10-yard pitch. This scaled-down playing area is designed to maximise ball touches and encourage young players to develop fundamental movement skills, coordination, passing, and confidence in possession. The smaller pitch and goals create a fun, engaging environment where Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 pupils can learn the basics of football through age-appropriate games and activities.

Year 3-4 (U8-U9) – 5-a-Side Football

Recommended Goal Size: 12ft x 6ft

Pitch Size: 37yd x 27yd

For U8-U9 football, players move to a 5-a-side format using 12ft x 6ft goals on a 37 by 27-yard pitch. The larger playing area provides more opportunities for teamwork, positioning, and decision-making while still maintaining a fast-paced game suitable for developing players. This FA-recommended format helps children in Years 3 and 4 build technical skills and game awareness as they progress through grassroots football.

Year 5-6 (U10-U11) – 7-a-Side Football

Recommended Goal Size: 12ft x 6ft

Pitch Size: 55yd x 37yd

For U10-U11 football, the game expands to a 7-a-side format while continuing to use 12ft x 6ft goals. Played on a 55 by 37-yard pitch, this format gives players more space to develop passing combinations, movement off the ball, and tactical understanding. The increased pitch dimensions encourage greater teamwork and positional awareness, helping players prepare for the next stage of youth football without changing goal size.

Year 7-8 (U12-U13) – 9-a-Side Football

Recommended Goal Size: 16ft x 7ft

Pitch Size: 73yd x 46yd

At U12-U13 level, players progress to 9-a-side football using 16ft x 7ft goals on a 73 by 46-yard pitch. This format bridges the gap between mini-soccer and the full-sized game by introducing larger playing areas and more complex tactical situations. The increased space encourages longer passing, improved positional play, and greater teamwork, while the larger goals support the continued development of both outfield players and goalkeepers.

Year 9 (U14) – 11-a-Side Football

Recommended Goal Size: 21ft x 7ft

Pitch Size: 82yd x 50yd

For U14 football, players make the transition to 11-a-side football using 21ft x 7ft goals on an 82 by 50-yard pitch. The introduction of the full-sided format allows players to experience the structure and tactical demands of the traditional game while still using slightly reduced goal and pitch dimensions. This stage focuses on developing game intelligence, teamwork, and positional responsibility ahead of the move to larger pitches and goals.

Year 10-11 (U15–U16) – 11-a-Side Football

Recommended Goal Size: 24ft x 8ft

Pitch Size: 91yd x 55yd

At U15-U16 level, matches are played in the standard 11-a-side format using full-size 24ft x 8ft goals on a 91 by 55-yard pitch. The larger playing area allows players to further develop tactical awareness, fitness, and technical ability in a match environment that closely reflects the adult game. This format provides an important stepping stone towards senior football competition.

Year 12+ (U17+) – 11-a-Side Football

Recommended Goal Size: 24ft x 8ft (full size)

Pitch Size: 100yd x 64yd

For U17-U18+ football, matches are played using full-size 24ft x 8ft goals on a 100 by 64-yard pitch. This is the final stage of youth football and mirrors the dimensions commonly used in the adult game. The full-sized pitch provides the space required for advanced tactical play, strategic positioning, and high-level technical development, preparing players for competitive senior football.

All sizes and formats shown are the maximum allowed.

Goal, pitch, & team size recommendations are based on The FA guidelines (The FA, n.d.).

Browse Our Range of Football Coaching Equipment

Explore our range of portable and free-standing football goals here — perfect for training sessions, schools, and youth teams of all ages.

For everything else you need to coach, train, and teach football effectively, browse our wide selection of coaching equipment, including cones, markers, and training aids here.

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By following these recommended football ball sizes, goal dimensions, pitch measurements, and team formats, you can ensure every match and training session is safe, enjoyable, and developmentally appropriate. Whether you’re equipping a youth team, school class, or coaching session, our range of footballs, goals, and training equipment provides everything you need to support players at every stage.

FAQs

What size football for schools?

Football sizes in schools are determined by age, school year, and key stage, as shown in the size guide above.

In general:

Size 2 – EYFS–Year 1 (ages 4–6)
Size 3 – Year 2–Year 4 (ages 6–9)
Size 4 – Year 5–Year 9 (ages 9–14)
Size 5 – Year 10+ (ages 14+)

These size recommendations follow FA guidance and ensure pupils are using a ball that is appropriate for their development, ability, and match format.

For a full breakdown by Key Stage, year group, and team age, refer to the table above.

How long is a football match?

A standard football match lasts 90 minutes, split into two 45-minute halves. In schools, match length is usually shortened depending on age and lesson time, often ranging from 20–60 minutes in total.

To access more in-depth information on the FA's recommended game length by age group, you can click here (The FA, n.d. B)

How many players are on the pitch in school football?

The number of players on the pitch in school football varies by age group and format, with smaller team sizes used for younger pupils to support skill development and game understanding.

In line with FA guidance:

EYFS–Year 2 – 3v3
Year 3–Year 4 – 5v5
Year 5–Year 6 – 7v7
Year 7–Year 8 – 9v9
Year 9+ – 11v11

This progressive increase in team size helps pupils build confidence, spatial awareness, and tactical understanding as they move through school.

3v3 football is a more recent introduction to the grassroots game, designed to maximise time on the ball and encourage greater involvement for every player. You can find out more about 3v3 football here.

What size is a football pitch?

Football pitch sizes in schools vary depending on the age group and format being played, with smaller pitches used for younger players to support skill development.

Based on FA guidelines:

EYFS–Year 2 (3v3) – approx. 15 x 10 yards

Year 3–Year 4 (5v5) – approx. 37 x 27 yards

Year 5–Year 6 (7v7) – approx. 55 x 37 yards

Year 7–Year 8 (9v9) – approx. 73 x 46 yards

Year 9+ (11v11) – from approx. 82 x 50 yards up to 100 x 64 yards

As pupils progress through school, both the pitch size and number of players increase, helping to develop spatial awareness, fitness, and tactical understanding.

For a full breakdown by year group, team size, and goal dimensions, refer to the table above.

What size goal is used in school football?

Goal sizes in school football vary depending on the age group and format, with smaller goals used for younger pupils to support development and enjoyment.

Based on FA guidance:

EYFS–Year 2 (3v3) – 4ft x 2.5ft
Year 3–Year 4 (5v5) – 12ft x 6ft
Year 5–Year 6 (7v7) – 12ft x 6ft
Year 7–Year 8 (9v9) – 16ft x 7ft
Year 9+ (11v11) – 21ft x 7ft (Year 9), progressing to 24ft x 8ft (Year 10+)

Using the correct goal size helps ensure matches are age-appropriate, safe, and engaging for all players. For a full breakdown, refer to the table above.

What equipment do you need to play football in schools?

Basic football equipment for schools includes:

Footballs (age-appropriate sizes)
Goals and nets
Cones or markers for pitches and drills
Bibs for team identification
A pump and needle for inflating balls

Additional items like agility equipment or rebounders can help support skills development in PE lessons.

What size goal is used in school football?

Goal sizes in school football vary depending on the age group and format, with smaller goals used for younger pupils to support development and enjoyment.

Based on FA guidance:

EYFS–Year 2 (3v3) – 4ft x 2.5ft
Year 3–Year 4 (5v5) – 12ft x 6ft
Year 5–Year 6 (7v7) – 12ft x 6ft
Year 7–Year 8 (9v9) – 16ft x 7ft
Year 9+ (11v11) – 21ft x 7ft (Year 9), progressing to 24ft x 8ft (Year 10+)

Using the correct goal size helps ensure matches are age-appropriate, safe, and engaging for all players. For a full breakdown, refer to the table above.

What is the correct football size for KS1 and KS2?

Football sizes for KS1 and KS2 are designed to suit younger players and support early skill development:

KS1 (Years 1–2) – Size 2–3
Lower KS2 (Years 3–4) – Size 3
Upper KS2 (Years 5–6) – Size 4

Using smaller, lighter footballs at these stages helps pupils improve control, passing, and confidence while learning the basics of the game.

What is the correct football size for KS3 and KS4?

As pupils move into secondary school, football sizes increase to prepare them for full match play:

KS3 (Years 7–9) – Size 4
KS4 (Years 10–11) – Size 5

This progression allows players to develop technique, strength, and match awareness using equipment that matches the standard adult game.

References:

England Football (n.d.) A closer look at 3v3. Available at: https://futurefit.englandfootball.com/futurefit/a-closer-look-at-3v3/index.html (Accessed: 15 May 2026).

England Football (n.d.) Has the ball size changed for different age groups? FutureFit. Available at: https://futurefit.englandfootball.com/futurefit/faqs/has-the-ball-size-changed-for-different-age-groups/index.html (Accessed: 25 August 2026)

The FA. (n.d.) An at-a-glance guide to junior football [PDF]. The Football Association. Available at: https://www.thefa.com/-/media/cfa/northridingfa/files/safeguarding-and-welfare/121022-rulesperagegroups.ashx?la=en (Accessed: 29 September 2025).

The FA (n.d. B) Play your part: All you need to know to create the environment where everyone can enjoy football. Available at: https://www.thefa.com/-/media/cfa/cheshirefa/files/facilities/play-your-part.ashx (Accessed: 15 May 2026).

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