Looking for the perfect tournament for your team? Whether you’re coaching U7s just finding their feet or U16s ready to take on Europe, we’ve got you covered.
From the buzzing sidelines of UK weekenders to the sun-soaked pitches of Europe’s biggest comps, there’s no shortage of unforgettable football experiences out there. But picking the right one? That starts with knowing the rules, formats, and where your team will get the most out of their game.
In this guide, we’re breaking down the top football tournaments for each age group – with a mix of UK favourites and international adventures. Plus, we’ll answer the big questions like “How long are youth football games?” and cover essential info in our Age Group Rules section, including things like Under 7 football age rules, Under 10 formats, and even the Under 11 football team size.
So, whether you’re planning your first tour or adding another medal to the shelf – scroll on, and let’s find your next big football moment!
Age Group Rules and Game Lengths
Below is everything you need to know when it comes to youth football games!
Under 7 Football Age Rules
Format:
3-a-side
Max mins per day:
60 mins
Ball size:
Size 3
No league tables, scores not officially recorded.
Under 8 Football Age Rules
Format:
5-a-side
Max mins per day:
60 mins
Ball size:
Size 3
Emphasis on fun, skill-building, and inclusion.
Under 9 Football Age Rules
Format:
5-a-side
Max mins per day:
60 mins
Ball size:
Size 3
Emphasis on fun, skill-building, and inclusion.
Under 10 Football Age Rules
Format:
7-a-side
Max mins per day:
90 mins
Ball size:
Size 3
Introduction to tactical play and wider pitches.
Under 11 Football Age Rules
Format:
7-a-side
Max mins per day:
90 mins
Ball size:
Size 3
Start of structured team formations and greater focus on positions.
Under 12 Football Age Rules
Format:
9-a-side
Max mins per day:
120 mins
Ball size:
Size 4
Refining team play and preperation for full-pitch matches.
Under 13 Football Age Rules
Format:
13-a-side
Max mins per day:
120 mins
Ball size:
Size 4
Match discipline, team shape and competitive gameplay.
Under 14 Football Age Rules
Format:
11-a-side
Max mins per day:
150 mins
Ball size:
Size 5
Building stamina, advanced tactics and competitive mindsets.
Under 15 Football Age Rules
Format:
11-a-side
Max mins per day:
150 mins
Ball size:
Size 5
Close to adult-style football – more intensity, more structure.
Under 16 Football Age Rules
Format:
11-a-side
Max mins per day:
150 mins
Ball size:
Size 5
Higher-level strategy, full match experience, and potential pathways to academy trials or club levels.
Top Tournaments by Age Group
Under 7s – Small-Sided Fun for Beginners
UK Pick: Blackpool May Day Football Tournament
- Family-friendly venue with on-site entertainment
- Great introduction to tournament football in a relaxed, fun setting
International Pick: Easter Open Football Tournament (The Netherlands)
- A brilliant first international experience for younger teams
- Short travel, friendly atmosphere, and ideal for mixed or development squads
- Great balance of competition and fun, with plenty for families to enjoy too
Under 8s – Skills, Smiles & First Competitions
UK Pick: Norfolk Football Tournament
- Relaxed, well-structured event for young teams
- On-site catering, entertainment, and a guest-led awards ceremony
Under 10s – Getting tactical
UK Pick: West Sussex Football Tournament & West Sussex Girls Football Tournament
- Both events taking place on the same weekend
- One-day format with a festival feel
International Pick: Hageland Cup Football Tournament (Belgium)
- Welcomes U8 – U17 (boys) from across across Europe
- Friendly yet competitive matches on grass pitches
Under 11s – A Step Up in Size & Skill
UK Pick: Somerset Football Tournament
- Open to U8-U15 teams
- Focus on development and game experience
Under 12s - Under 15s – Rising Stars & Bigger Stages
UK Pick: Blackpool May Day Football Tournament
- Part of our ever popular Fleetwood Town Cup
- Excellent for club bonding and player development
International Pick: Dana Cup Football Tournament (Denmark) or Easter Open (South) Football Tournament (The Netherlands)
- Easter Open: Great for teams starting to travel internationally
- Dana Cup: World-class tournament experience with huge scale
Under 16s – Elite Experiences
UK Pick: Blackpool Easter Football Tournament
- Part of our ever-popular Fleetwood Town Cup
- Set in Blackpool, with loads to do after the final whistle – from arcades to the Pleasure Beach
International Pick: Costa Daurada Football Cup (Spain)
- Attracts over 200 football teams from across Europe
- Hosted at Futbol Salou with 12 natural, artificial, and hybrid grass football fields, 11 of which are endorsed by UEFA and FIFA
Or Something More Lowkey?
If your team isn’t interested in entering a tournament, a bespoke sports tour may be the solution for you.
We understand that not all teams want to play in a tournament. Perhaps your team is just starting out, or you fancy a more well-rounded experience. Opportunities to visit cities, theme parks, water parks or stadiums are great for team-bonding!
The Final Whistle
Whether you’re researching Under 7 football age rules or looking to book your U16s girls for an elite international experience, there’s a tournament for every team.
Use this guide to choose the right fit – and make your next football tour the best one yet.
