MIXED WESTERN BOP JUNIOR DRAWS

8TH GRADE  - Fun Football

There is no football on Kings Birthday or the middle and last weekend of the school holidays. The last game for the season is August 29th, 2026.​​​​​​​

Western BOP Fun Football Playing Format 2026 - 8th Grade ​​​​​​​

"Fun Football" for 8th Grade is played 5v5, with goalkeepers. 

Game Day Format:

  • Teams should arrive to warm up 20 mins before their first game.
  • The Ideal warm up is two skill activities from the McDonalds Junior Framework - you can find these activities in Coachmate
  • Each team will play 2 x 20min games (10mins each way), playing two other teams. (NOTE: In some locations, the format changes to one 40min game)​​​​​​​

Fun Football - Key Points

Small-sided games with lots of touches are great for young players as they focus on fun and skill development.

The 5v5 format means more time on the ball, keeping kids involved.

  • 5v5 format (4 outfield players and a goalkeeper)
  • 40 minutes maximum game time (Ideally 2x20mins)
  • Size 3 ball
  • Goalkeepers
  • No offside rule
  • Ball kicked/dribbled back into play (No throw-ins)
  • Free kicks awarded for fouls - indirect only
  • No published match results or ladders
  • Only the team and referee can be on the pitch (not coaches) 

8th Grade games at Waipuna Park & Pemberton Park are scheduled on the hour. Please ensure games start on time & the break between games is kept to a minimum. ​​​​​​​

Teams will play one 40-minute game against the same opposition. Coaches can decide if the game consists of two 20-minute halves or two 20-minute games. Please ensure the match remains fun for both teams. CLICK HERE for help with Junior game day challenge points (page 16 of the WaiBOP Junior Regulations)