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The Evidence! German Youth Soccer (Football) Restructure
The German Football Association (DFB) has been pioneering a new youth football approach over the past two years, collaborating with all 21 regional associations. The feedback from the kids has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting their experiences rather than focusing solely on parents' or coaches' perspectives.
Embracing a Player-Centered Approach
In this innovative format, the DFB has moved away from traditional small-sided games to provide more opportunities and challenges for young players, with minimal intervention from coaches and parents. Vice President Ronny Zimmermann, responsible for children’s and youth football, stated, “We need to think like children, not adults. Only children who develop fun and joy in the game will stay in football.” This shift emphasizes fun and places the player at the center of the experience.
Key Changes in the New Format
The previous format of small-sided games often disadvantaged smaller, less physical, or less technical players, limiting their time in possession. The new format returns control of the game to the children, reducing adult interference.
Core Principles of the New DFB Regulations:
- Games designed to challenge all aspects of the player
- Reduced game time
- Mandatory player rotation
- No officials, minimal coach, and parent involvement
- Festival-style events rather than single matches or leagues
- Minimal heading
Over the last two years, the DFB has piloted this format with all 21 regional associations. The feedback has been positive, focusing on the children’s experiences rather than the adults'.
Implementation Timeline
All clubs in Germany must adopt this new format by the start of the 2024/25 season. The DFB aims to provide young players more opportunities to score goals and engage with the ball.
How the New Format Looks
G-Youth (U6 & U7):
- 2v2 or 3v3 games
- Pitch dimensions: 16m x 20m (min) to 28m x 22m (max)
- Maximum of 2 substitutes
- 4 target goals per team
- End zones for finishing
- No goalkeeper
- Mandatory player rotation after each goal
- Restart by passing or dribbling in
Festival Formats:
- 10-minute games (max 7 rounds)
- Competitive balance through progression and relegation
F-Youth (U8 & U9):
- 3v3 or 5v5 games
- Optional target goals
- Goalkeepers and standard goals introduced
- 12-minute playing time
- Restart by passing or dribbling in
E-Jugend (U10 & U11):
- 5v5 or 7v7 games
- Introduction of throw-ins
- Set goalkeeper
- Tournament format with max 4 teams, 2 x 12-minute games
Focus on Development
The primary goal is to provide younger players with more touches on the ball. This format limits physical dominance and allows all players to develop technically and psychologically. With minimal interaction from coaches and parents, children can create and impose their own tactics, finding solutions on the field themselves. This approach aligns with numerous studies showing that coach-directed tactics from an 11-a-side perspective do not suit youth development.
Match Officials and Heading
Removing officials from younger age groups will free up resources for older age groups, reducing the overall need for officials in German football. Coaches will manage the rules collaboratively, intervening only when necessary.
The new format minimizes the need for heading, addressing concerns about concussion and head trauma without outright banning it, unlike other countries.
The rationale for the Changes
Germany's recent lackluster performances on the international stage highlighted the need for long-term player development. This new format aims to support sustained development for young players.
Koach Karl’s Notes
Thank you for exploring the 'German Youth Football Restructure!' Stay tuned for more exciting insights and proposed cutting-edge changes. Share your comments and ideas with us and consider supporting the SOCCERevolution!
