Who controls a MiniRoos Club Football match, and what is their role?
Rule- Australia
- Football Australia
- Coles MiniRoos
- MiniRoos Club Football
- Ages 5-11
- Under 6 to Under 11
- 2026
- Referees
Each game is controlled by one Game Leader. Under 6-9 games are supervised by a Game Leader, often a trained parent; Under 10-11 may use official referees depending on the local association. The Game Leader can be a club official, parent, older child or beginner referee. Football Australia's referee course is open from age 13 (Junior Football Match Official).
The Game Leader's main role is to keep the game flowing, limit stoppages and help with restarts, while making sure all players have fun and learn the game. They should:
- Check the correct number of players are on and that all wear shin guards.
- Encourage different children to take restarts, and use a "Ready, Set, Go" prompt to speed up restarts.
- Discourage players permanently over-guarding the goal and kicking the ball long.
- Explain why a free kick was awarded, and praise both teams.
Game Leaders are encouraged to complete the free Coles MiniRoos Certificate before the season.
Sources: Coles MiniRoos National Playing Formats and Rules (https://www.miniroos.com.au/club-resources), https://www.miniroos.com.au/faqs and https://footballaustralia.com.au/get-involved/refereeing
Added 24 Oct 2026