New strategy for youth football will put participation for all at its core, says Kent FA’s football development officer for youth and mini soccer Toby Elgar

The European Championships come amid a time of change for youth football.

There’s nothing like a major tournament to put the game in the spotlight and inspire the next generation of players.

And those joining the many thousands of youngsters who already turn out across the county will see the difference.

A major change in the younger age groups has already been announced in the form of moves to phase out heading from under-7 to under-11 levels over the next three years.

This starts next season with under-7s to under-9s, increasing to under-10s in 2025-26 and under-11s from 2026-27, as football responds to safety concerns.

And further changes are on the horizon, as Toby Elgar, the Kent FA’s football development officer for youth and mini soccer, explains.

“Going into the Euros, it’s a really exciting time for football in England, certainly in the youth space.

“The FA are publishing their new strategy and, as county FAs, we’re doing the same, so there’s lots to look forward to.

“In terms of the FA strategy, it’s looking at increasing playing opportunities and trying to ensure we’re providing the best environment for players to play football.

“Across the country, and in Kent, it’s about ensuring everyone has an opportunity to play.

“In youth football there’s some big changes coming in the next four years that the FA are on the cusp of finalising.

“Basically there’s going to be some really big playing format changes that we haven’t seen since nine-a-side football came in 13 or 14 years ago.

“There’s going to be a lot of change coming for clubs and teams and players that they’re going to have to adapt to.

“The direction of travel is really positive on that, we just need to embrace the change as a county FA and get on board