Image: The proposals will transform youth football

Football Association (FA) shareholders have voted in favour of adopting new proposals for a new player development pathway that is set to transform youth football in England.

The plans - approved by 87 per cent of shareholders - include a mandatory 5v5 format for U7s and U8s, and a 9v9 format for U11s and U12s to be phased in by 2014-15.

The smaller-sided formats will enable children to play on appropriate size pitches and with appropriate size goals to allow for greater participation in the game.

The new framework is also designed to help young players develop greater technical skills, while benefiting from a more "child-friendly" approach to competition.

FA national development manager Nick Levett said: "After 138 roadshows nationwide, it was fantastic to get the endorsement of the majority of the grassroots football community."

To read more on the youth development plans and the extension of the FA's National Game Strategy, see Sports Management 2011 Issue 2, p38

For the current issue of Sports Management, visit: www.sportsmanagement.co.uk/magazine

Details: www.thefa.com

Image: Fotokostic/shutterstock.com