The FA Guide to Grassroots Youth Football: Building the Future of the Game
Introduction
The Football Association’s “Guide to Grassroots Youth Football” represents the definitive blueprint for developing young footballers the right way. This comprehensive 2020/21 edition provides coaches, parents and volunteers with expert-approved methodologies to give children the best start in football, focusing on enjoyment, development and long-term participation rather than just winning. Whether you’re new to coaching or a seasoned youth developer, this guide offers the tools to create positive football experiences that last a lifetime.
Core Principles of Modern Youth Development
1. Child-Centered Approach
The FA’s philosophy prioritizes:
- Age-appropriate coaching (technical, tactical, physical, psychological)
- Individual development over team results
- Inclusive participation for all ability levels
- Psychological safety and enjoyment
For additional child development resources, visit The FA Learning Portal.
2. Progressive Skill Acquisition
The guide outlines:
- Foundation phase (5-11 years) fundamentals
- Youth development phase (12-16 years) specialization
- Game understanding through simplified formats
- Multi-sport benefits for athletic development
3. Creating Positive Environments
Key focus areas include:
- Effective communication strategies
- Growth mindset cultivation
- Managing parent expectations
- Safeguarding best practices
Practical Implementation Guide
Session Planning Fundamentals
- Engaging warm-ups that develop coordination
- Game-based learning activities
- Small-sided matches with adapted rules
- Cool-down reflections for learning reinforcement
Season Structure Recommendations
- Pre-season: Focus on fundamental movement skills
- Main season: Progressive technical development
- Tournaments: Applying skills in competitive settings
For sample session plans:
Why This Guide is Essential
Evidence-Based Methodology
All recommendations are:
- Research-backed by sports scientists
- Field-tested across English grassroots
- Aligned with FA DNA principles
Practical Difference Makers
Unlike generic coaching books, this guide offers:
✔ Ready-to-use session templates
✔ Age-specific coaching points
✔ Behavior management techniques
✔ Inclusion strategies
Who Should Use This Resource?
- New coaches starting their journey
- Parent volunteers helping local teams
- Club administrators setting curriculum
- School teachers delivering PE football
- Experienced coaches updating methods
Measuring Success the Right Way
The FA’s approach evaluates:
- Participation enjoyment levels
- Individual progress markers
- Skill acquisition milestones
- Long-term retention in football
For assessment tools:
Final Recommendation: The Grassroots Gold Standard
This guide represents the most comprehensive, scientifically-validated resource available for anyone committed to developing young footballers in an ethical, effective manner.
Where to Access?
Available free at our major bookstores in PDF format, and also available through:
Pour mieux développer mes connaissances dans le domaine de football.