Which age group is my child in?
Rule- England
- England Football
- Mini-soccer
- Under 7
- Under 8
- 3v3
- 5v5
- FutureFit
- 2026/27
- Parents
Age groups go by your child's age at midnight on 31 August at the start of the season, which lines up with school years.
| Age on 31 August 2026 | Age group | School year |
|---|---|---|
| 6 (or turns 6 during the season) | Under 7 | Year 2 |
| 7 | Under 8 | Year 3 |
- A child must be at least 6 to play in any match.
- A child may play up one age group, but a child who turns 6 after 31 August can only play Under 7, not Under 8, that season. The age-group rules cover training as well as matches.
- Girls in all-girls teams may be allowed to play an age group down in a mixed league, with approval from the league and County FA.
- Every player must be registered through The FA's Player Registration System.
Added 21 Oct 2026