FFA: Under 10, 11, 12 format is simply wrong!

I've alwasy thought the standard of Aussie juniors is techncally poor. This is changing no doubt but the FFA could change things even quicker and improve all our players, not just the two per cent at the top, if we were to embrace small-sided games.

I mean at Age 10, 11 and 12. We are nowhere near this yet are we? and if if works at 6, 7, 8 and 9 for Aussie kids as we aim to improve their skills why does it change at 10? Are our kids technically gifted in huge numbers by 10? I don't think so.

A recent UEFA Study in Republic of Ireland (see page 12) has unveiled compelling evidence to support the value of Futsal as a development tool.

Tests involved the same youngsters playing 7-a-side outdoor game and Futsal for the same amount of time showed:

- 300-400% increase in ball control operations

- the same ratio in ball passing

- and 1,000% attempts in 1 v 1 dribbles

and equally dramatic attempts in goal attempts, tackling/interceptions.

The small pitch lead to these situations occuring and an increase in players self-esteem and confidence.

The only situation where results were the same for indoor and outdoor football were in "lost possession," but with the small pitch in Futsal clearly players have a much quicker chance of getting back on the ball.

Is the FFA doing the best by our 98% of community players or only by those heading to the National Under 13 Championships?

I'd argue they are doing poorly by all our kids!