Western BOP Fun Football Playing Format 2026 - 8th Grade 

This page is in the process of being updated. 

"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.

Two shorter games against different teams keep them engaged (without to much focus on tactics, or big scorelines).

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

To scroll between the different groups use the little drop down arrow to the far right of the competition name