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Mini Football / 12 to 13 year olds

11-12

Under 11 and Under 12 teams ideally comprise eleven players – 9 playing + 2 reserves.

The playing teams are 9 a side (including a goalkeeper), using a size 4 ball, and on a ground 60m by 45m with goals that are 4 x 2 metres.

Game day includes a FIFA 11+ warm up, 10 minutes station activity, and one match 2 x 25 minute halves.

Teams play in the Wellington/Western zone combined leagues.

Weekly draws will be posted on the Capital Football Website: Fixtures prior to each week’s game.

Games are usually scheduled for Saturday, between 9am and 3pm – but sometimes games can be scheduled for Friday nights from 5.50-8pm, under lights and on the turf.

You will be advised of the time, the grounds, and which team you are playing against by your team manager.

Each team needs two coaches, a manager, and another volunteer (who is not the coach) who can referee the weekly matches.

In 2026, we have introduced the Youth Ready Programme (YRP) in both U12 and U13. This programme is designed for competitive footballers who want to focus on their development from Term 1 and throughout the season. Whilst the EOI has closed, if you are interested in taking part please contact your grade coordinator (U12@onslow.org.nz or U13@onslow.org.nz) . The programme starts Monday 16 February. More info is available HERE.

Introduction of the Retreating Line Rule

This coaching tool has been successfully implemented in Junior Football throughout the world. It has also been used successfully by Federations in New Zealand over the past few years. The Retreating Line rule enables and encourages our young footballers to start to develop and enjoy a style of play in keeping with Worlds best practice and New Zealand Football’s playing philosophy.

An instructional video on the new rule can be seen here.