Selecting the correct football goal size is essential to comply with regulations and to ensure the goal is age appropriate. Football goals vary for different age groups and the right goal size can impact player development and training quality. In this guide, we explain the different football goal sizes by age, letting you know the requirements for all levels of the game.
Understanding football goal regulations
Governing bodies like FIFA and the FA set standard regulations for football equipment, including football goal sizes. This ensures uniformity across all levels of the game, encouraging fairness and best practices.
Standard goal sizes vary by age group. For example, goal sizes for youth football differ from goals for seniors. Adhering to the regulations for goal post sizes helps to ensure that the game is played on a level playing field and that there is consistency between training sessions and competitive matches.
The FA has also developed safety standards for goalposts, known as BS EN 16579:2018. The FA says: “It is strongly recommended that you ensure that all goals purchased comply with the relevant standard.”
Full-Size football goals: Senior matches
Full-size football goals are used in senior matches at both professional and grassroots levels. Full-size football goals measure 24 x 8 feet, as required by FIFA and the FA for adult 11-a-side matches.
Full-size goals are suitable for all senior-level matches and training sessions, guaranteeing players practice with equipment that mirrors actual match conditions.
Football goals should be made from high-quality materials like aluminium and steel. This helps ensure both durability and safety during games. Consider the Diamond full-size football goals for a quality and long-lasting product.
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Youth football goal sizes by age group
Goal sizes for youth football vary by age group to align with different developmental milestones. The FA provides specific guidelines for each age group:
- Under 7 & Under 8 (5v5) goal size: 12 x 6 feet
- Under 9 & Under 10 (7v7) goal size: 12 x 6 feet
- Under 11 & Under 12 (9v9) goal size: 16 x 7 feet
- Under 13 & Under 14 (11v11) goal size: 21 x 7 feet
- Under 15 & Under 16 (11v11) goal size: 24 x 8 feet (full size)
- Under 17 & Under 18 (11v11) goal size: 24 x 8 feet (full size)
Appropriately sized goals help young players develop shooting accuracy, goalkeeping skills, and overall game understanding. They are sometimes made with the same materials as full-size goals, but you will often find goals made from lighter materials such as UPVC for enhanced safety and portability.
Browse our website to find football goals designed for different age groups.
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Choosing the right goal size for training and matches
When it comes to training, coaches and clubs should make sure they select goal sizes that align with the goals that will be used during matches. This will help players transfer skills from training to competitive play.
However, there is room to experiment with different types of goals during training. Mini goals and portable goals offer coaches great versatility for training drills. For example, mini-goals can help improve shooting accuracy. Just ensure plenty of time is spent training with correctly sized match goals.
Discover Diamond’s top-quality football products for all your training and match needs.
Maintenance and durability considerations
Choosing the correct goal size is just the start. Regular maintenance is crucial for the safety and longevity of football goal posts. To keep your goals in the best condition possible, follow the below best practices:
- Routine inspections: Conduct regular goal post checks, ensuring no loose bolts, cracks, or signs of wear and tear.
- Cleaning: Keep goal posts clean to prevent corrosion and to help maintain their appearance.
- Proper storage: Ensure you store portable goals in a dry, sheltered area when not in use to protect them from harsh weather conditions.
- Compliance with safety standards: Ensure all goals meet relevant safety standards, such as BS EN 16579:2018, to guarantee they are safe for use.
It is also a good idea to consider factors such as weather resistance, portability and net replacement. So, when selecting football goals, keep in mind the following:
- Weather resistance: Opt for materials that can withstand local weather conditions, such as aluminium.
- Portability: For training sessions that require frequent movement of goals, consider lightweight materials like PVC.
- Net Replacement: Choose goals with easily replaceable nets to simplify maintenance and extend the goal's lifespan.
We have a range of football nets available for various goal types.
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Frequently asked questions about football goal sizes
What size is a full-size football goal?
A full-size football goal measures 24 x 7 feet, as regulated by governing bodies such as FIFA and the FA. Full-size football goals are used at U15/U16s up to senior and professional levels.
What football goal size should be used for U10 matches?
Under 10 matches should be played with 12x6 feet football goals. This ensures that this age group is using goals appropriate to their size and stage of development.
Are different goal sizes required for training vs official matches?
While training sessions can use a variety of different football goal sizes, it is advised that players train regularly with goals that are the same size as what they will play with during a competitive match.
How do I maintain my football goal for long-term use?
Inspect your football goals regularly for structural integrity, checking for things like loose bolts and cracks. Store portable goals in a weather-proofed environment and replace nets as needed.
Shop for football goals today
Choosing the appropriate football goal size for each age is vital for ensuring fair play, safety, and skill development. By investing in high-quality, regulation-compliant football goals, you can enhance training sessions and be well-prepared for match days.
Here at Diamond Football, we are experts in football training equipment. Check out our full range of football goals to find the perfect match for your club or training session.
