PLEASE NOTE: The notes below are from season 2009. They will be updated when we receive further information from the Association.

In 2009, FFA in conjunction with Member Federations, Zones Associations and Clubs will continue the roll out of Small-Sided Games, now known as Optus Small-Sided Football. In 2008 Small-Sided Game was implemented in Under 6 aged group in the St George area. In 2009 Small-Sided Football will be rolled out to Under 7 and Under 8 as well.

The feedback from the first full season of Optus Small-Sided Football has been extremely positive from Member Federations right down to the parents and supporters. Optus Small-Sided Football is football for kids, played on smaller fields, with less players on a team and in an environment where the emphasis is on enjoyment rather than winning. It maximises participation for all players, leading to more touches on the ball, repeated decision-making, more goals and importantly less perceived pressure on young players.

Pitch size, players numbers and goal dimensions all gradually increase as children move through the age groups, with under six playing 4 v 4 and progressing through to 11 v 11 when they reach under 13. The laws of the game also gradually change throughout this progression to reflect the changes in understanding, awareness as well as the physical development of players.

As outlined in the National Football Development Plan, FFA is committed to the rollout of Optus Small-Sided Football for the under six to under 12 age groups inclusive. Building on the fantastic response in 2008, the requirement for 2009 will be that all under six, seven and eight age groups will be playing Optus Small-Sided Football in accordance with FFA playing formats and conditions. It is then expected that in each subsequent year a further age group will begin playing Optus Small-Sided Football, for example, under nine's in 2010, under tens in 2011, under 11s in 2012 and under 12s in 2013, so that the rollout should be completed over a 4-5 year period.

The education of clubs, parents and players is vitally important to the success of Optus Small-Sided Football. With this in mind FFA has produced the following educational resources and methods to assist clubs in promoting and educating parents about the structure, rules and philosophy of Optus Small-Sided Football.

Optus Small-Sided Football Handbook

Optus Small-Sided Football Parent Information Flyer

Optus Small-Sided Football Poster

Optus Small-Sided Football Game Leader Resource *NEW*

Optus Small-Sided Football Instructing Referee Resource *NEW*

Optus Small-Sided Football Coaching DVD *NEW*

Optus Small-Sided Football Laws *NEW*

Optus Small-Sided Football and Goalkeepers

The FFA through its Regional Participation Managers and Member Federations will continue to offer education sessions at association level for all clubs and parents to attend as required and can also get football specific staff and ambassadors to assist in the delivery of this message.

Football Federation Australia will commence a national media campaign that will commence in mid March on Optus Small-Sided Football, to compliment the great work already completed in this area by Member Federations. Zones, Associations and Clubs.

The FFA website will be used to post information and FAQ's regarding Optus Small-Sided Football. Clubs and Parents are encouraged to use these resources to ensure the roll out of Optus Small-Sided Football over the coming years within Australia is successful and beneficial for all.