The FA has teamed up with the Football Foundation to provide funding towards the installation of 9v9 goalposts as part of The FA’s Youth Development Review, as well as continuing to replace unsafe goalposts.
The FA announced in May that football matches for younger players will be played with smaller teams and on smaller pitches. Gareth Southgate, The FA's Head of Elite Development, said: “These changes are vitally important for the development of young players and the future of football in this country."
This is a watershed moment for the game which should reap rewards in terms of the quality of player we produce in this country and the enjoyment experienced by youngsters when they play our national game.
New goalposts for the 9v9 format will be a major part of these plans – 9v9 football for U11 and U12s will be optional for season 2012-13 and mandatory for season 2013-14.
The good news is that The FA and the Football Foundation have ringfenced substantial funding towards the cost of this programme and providing the goals required – grants of 50 per cent towards the total cost will be available. The Football Foundation are working closely with County FAs across the country to identify the needs and sites that will benefit.
For more information please contact your County Football Association or visit www.footballfoundation.org.uk