FA Guidance for Under-6 Football: What Clubs Need to Know

REMINDER OF THE FA GUIDANCE AROUND U6S PLAYING FOOTBALL.

A reminder of the FA guidance for U6s is below. Children under the age of 6 should not be permitted or encouraged to play in a football match of any kind.

To clarify, FA Rule 8(C) states the following, A child who has not attained the age of six shall not play, and shall not be permitted or encouraged to play, in a match of any kind. The rule is clear, a child who is under the age of 6 cannot play in football matches, including those arranged for competitive or ‘friendly’ purposes with other clubs.

Football clubs, coaches, parents, and organisers often wonder when children can start playing formal matches. The Football Association (FA) has clear rules about Under-6s (children who have not yet turned six). This article explains the current regulations, the rationale behind them, and how to ensure compliance.

What the Rules Say

Rule: FA Rule C / SCORY / Youth Code of Rules
Under FA Rule C (Relating to Players), and the Standard Code of Rules for Youth Competitions (SCORY), the FA states:

“A child who has not attained the age of six shall not play, and shall not be permitted or encouraged to play, in a match of any kind.”

This applies to any match, whether competitive or friendly. “Match” refers to organised contests/scrimmages vs other teams, whether formally affiliated or not.
Affiliated Tournaments & Festivals
Any match between affiliated clubs (or events that involve multiple clubs) for U6s is not allowed. These rules also apply to tournaments or friendlies advertised for U6-level players.
Potential Consequences of Breach
Clubs found to be arranging or participating in matches involving children under six can face disciplinary actions.
For example, they may be charged under FA Rule E1: Failed to comply with the rules and regulations of the Football Association.
County FAs have also warned that advertisement of such matches (on social media, etc.) is against the rules.