Formations. The great Grassroots debate.
Which formation is the best for which age group ?
What different formations can I play ?
We’ve taken a look at the available options for each age group. Share you comments below and let us know which you feel are the best and why to help other coaches out
U7 & U8 Formations
| 1 – 2 – 1 : | The go to formation. One defender sits, One striker stays up and the two midfielders support |
| 2 – 2 : | More of a fluid formation, One of the defenders will push up to join the attack and the forwards will drop back and help the defenders. A little more solid. |
Theres not a great deal of choice regarding U7 & U8 formations and for a large part of their early U7 journey it won’t really matter as players are still in the kick and run mode and exploring themselves and how the fit into playing the game.
As they progress, the teams that get the formations quicker, will be the ones that progress. When players learn the positions and can look to play a pass, that is a big advantage. Teams that hold their shape will win more games.
U9 & U10 Formations
| 2 – 3 – 1 : | The “Go to” Formation. Solid at the Back, strong in midfield. Relys on Midfielders supporting attack |
| 3 – 2 – 1 : | Defensive. Great if you’re conceding goals and looking for that extra bit of security. |
| 1 – 4 – 1 : | Midfield overload. Relys on a fit midfield to get up and down the pitch to provide support for both defender and attacker |
| 1 – 3 – 2 : | Attacking. Requires a very solid defender and a hardworking midfield. |
| 1 – 1 – 2 – 1 – 1 : | Very versatile. Sitting midfielder provides cover for the defence but can start most of the attacker. |
Under 9 & Under 10’s are when formations start to take a more familiar shape and can effect games depending on how they are played out.
The Starter formation for many is the 2-3-1 as it gives defensive security and a strong midfield. A good building base to start with as your players are getting used to playing 7v7 and on a bigger pitch.
If you are looking to be a little more adventurous without being too open, the 1-1-2-1-1 or a diamond in midfield can give you that.
The one defender picks up the striker and the defensive midfielder provides cover and is available to take the ball off the defender and drive forward with more options ahead.
U11 to U13 Formations
| 4 – 3 – 1 : | Really strong defensive formation. |
| 4 – 2 – 2 : | Solid through the middle of the pitch, requires fullbacks to provide width |
| 3 – 4 – 1 : | Probably the “Go to” formation for most teams when moving up to 9’s. Solid at the back, strong in midfield |
| 3 – 3 – 2 : | Great formation if you have a strong CM who can deal with the extra work. Adds more attacking power |
| 2 – 4 – 2 : | Winning the midfield battle whilst maintaining attacking threat. |
| 2 – 2 – 2 – 1 – 1 : | Solid. Provides cover for defence allowing the rest of midfield to attack without the worry of being caught on the counter |
| 2 – 1 – 2 – 2 – 1 : | Shifting the focus onto attack. Requires a strong CDM |
| 2 – 1 – 2 – 1 – 2 : | Well balanced. Strong all through the Core. Provides width and large attacking threat. |
So many to choose from here and so many different ways to play. Which formation suits your stye ? Do you play down the wings ? Are you strong through the middle ? Are you looking for lots of possession ?
Whatever way you want to play, theres a formation here for you.
Squad Sizes
Squad sizes can be a key factor in how much game time your players get.
How many players do you ideally need for each age group.
Take a look at our “Ideal” squad size calculation if you are looking at equal game time
Tracking your Selections
Playing around with formations is all well and good, but you’ve got to be able to remember what formation you played, when you played it, who played where and how they played.
Our FREE Teamsheet Template download helps you do all that.
Build your stats throughout the season.
Look back, plan, reflect and improve.
This system is old school simple, but brilliantly effective, easy to use and Coaches worldwide are LOVING it.
Your Thoughts ?
We’d love to know your thoughts and experiences. Which Formations have been brilliant for you ? which have been a disasters. Share your experiences below and help other coaches to success, or help them not have the same disaster you had.
Leave a comment below.. it only take a second.
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Currently with our U10’s we are exploring 1-1-2-1-1 and it is working brilliantly.
What formation are you using ?
We were using 2-3-1 with our U9’s but have changed to 1-1-3-1. Give us the extra player in midfield and works really well.
Makes a big difference doesn’t it