Metro / Divisional U13 to U18 Information

Update for U14–U18 Teams – 2025 Season

Game Format

Players in the U14 to U18 age groups participate infull-sized, inter-club competitionson regulation-sized fields with standard goals. These games are gender-specific, with boys and girls playing in separate competitions.

Scheduling

Matches for U14–U18 teams take place across the weekend, depending on the competition schedule:

• Under 14: Friday, Saturday, or Sunday
• Under 15 and Under 16: Friday or Sunday
• Under 17 and Under 18: Friday, Saturday, or Sunday

Specific game times and venues will be provided once the competition draw is finalized by Football Queensland.

How Are Teams Graded?

Football Queensland follows a structured grading process to ensure teams are placed in the most suitable division for fair and competitive play. This process applies to U14–U18 teams across community and advanced competitions. Here’s how it works:

1. Team Nomination:

• Clubs nominate teams for the upcoming season and provide detailed information about the team’s skill level, previous performance, and player experience.

2. FQ Grading Carnival held at the start of the season: 

• Teams participate ingrading matches, held before the start of the season. These matches allow Football Queensland to evaluate team performance in a competitive environment.
• For U14–U18 teams, grading is conducted over specified weekends (dates are provided by Football Queensland and communicated via clubs).

3. Evaluation Criteria:

• Football Queensland evaluates teams based on key factors, including:
  • Technical skills: Individual player abilities like ball control, passing, and shooting.
  • Tactical understanding: Team organization, positioning, and strategy during matches.
  • Physical readiness: Fitness, speed, and endurance appropriate to the division.
  • Overall team cohesion: How well the team works together and maintains competitive performance.

• Based on performance in the grading matches, teams are allocated to divisions that best suit their overall skill level. Divisions typically range fromDivision 1(most competitive) toDivision 6(less competitive, focusing on participation and development).

• Throughout the season, Football Queensland monitors competition balance. Adjustments may be made early in the season if significant disparities in skill levels between teams are identified.

Parent Involvement

At this level, parental support is crucial for the success of each team. We ask for:

• Volunteer Coaches: A parent or community member willing to take on the role of team coach. Coaching support and resources will be provided by the club.
• Team Managers: A dedicated parent volunteer to manage team communications, organize logistics, and act as the central point of contact for families.

What Parents and Guardians Need to Know

1. Full-Size Format: These are 11-a-side games on full-sized fields, offering players a competitive experience.
2. Commitment: Players are expected to attend all training sessions for player development and team cohesion.
3. Communication: The team manager will share game schedules, trial information, and other updates. Ensure your contact details are up to date with the club.
4. Transportation: Matches may take place across various locations within the region. Plan for travel to and from games. Offer to carpool for those players who do not have anyone to drive them. 
5. Uniforms and Equipment: Ensure your child has the correct uniform and equipment (boots, shin pads, water bottle) for training and matches.

Next Steps

• Register your child for the 2025 season as early as possible to secure their place in trials and team allocations.
• Consider volunteering as a coach or manager to support your child’s team and the broader football community.

For additional information or support, contact the club's u13 - u18 coordinator.

Thank you for being part of the 2025 season, and we look forward to seeing your child thrive on and off the fields!