Small Sided Games Information       Small Sided Games Parent Leaflet

What is Rooball?

Football Australia has developed a modified game of football for children 5-10 years old called Rooball. That is a smaller version of football on smaller fields with less players, fewer rules and modified equipment. As a result, there are more goals and a lot more fun. The aim of Rooball is to give young girls and boys the maximum opportunity to participate in football, the world's most popular sport. Rooball is kids football, as long as you are 5 years old you can start football now.
Rooball is divided into four age groups. Under 6 play 4 play four a side, Under 7 and Under 8 play five a side on a 30meter X 20 meter field. Under 9s and Under 10s play 7 a side, on a 40 meter X 30 metr field.
In Rooball there are no premiership points. This is one of the most important aspects of Rooball as this moves the emphasis from winning to learning and having fun. Rooball encourages the frequent interchange of players so that all players get equal time on the field. Coaches are encouraged to rotate players so that they do not think of themselves as defenders, forwards or goal keepers but as Rooball players. Rooball helps young players develop the skills needed for all positions and players can later make a decision about which position they enjoy the most.

What Are Small Sided Games (SSG)? 

SSG are modified forms of 11 as side football, structured to suitably address the needs of young players, who have different development characteristics and needs to adult players.

The philosophy of SSG focuses on the enjoyment and freedom of expression with limited emphasis on coaching per se, particular I the formative years of a player’s development. They benefit children by making their early contact with the game more enjoyable while simultaneously providing an environment that will facilitate greater skill development.

The basis of SSG is that participants, playing on smaller fields and with small numbers, interact with the ball on more occasions and are required to make less complicated tactical decisions. The result for participants is more fun and better skill/technique development.

Resulting from the introduction of SSG, ACE has decided to eliminate travel for parents on a weekly basis and run the ages of 6, 7 and 8 inhouse, resulting in parents only having to take children to ACE fields for weekend matches. To provide exposure to playing other clubs, ACE will establish matches against other clubs on a four to five weekly rotation where each team will play multiple games during the one day against teams from another club. 

Small Sided Games Playing Format Summary 

What can Rooball give to children?

Rooball helps develop active children, as it lets them exercise in a fun and safe environment. There is little chance of injury in Rooball as players must wear shin pads to protect themselves and referees ensure fair play. Rooball is about young girls and boys playing together, making friends, having fun and learning the benefits of team participation and team sport. It's the way football is meant to be played... just for fun!

What can Rooball offer Parents?

Under 6,7 and 8 will be played in the main within other club teams whilst under 9 and  10 play matches between local teams resulting in limited trave travel and less expense. All we really ask of parent is your support and positive encouragement of the Rooball spirit; that is an emphasis on fun and participation rather than on winning! However, parent can of course, become involved as referees, coaches or managers of Rooball teams. There is no obligation towards parents as Rooball clubs are set up and ready to roll. If you want to be involved in your children's sporting activities, there is always a place for parents on a Rooball team as coaches and managers.