Dutchy wrote:Moe wrote:The rules state that Under 10 football oval size should be approx. 120 metres x 90 metres.
This is perfect.
Regardless of whether the coaches agree to play full size or not, I think these measurements should be adhered to for the kids sake.
Remember coaches, it is about the kids, not your personal thoughts.
Why is a small oval better for the kids? As I said the game becomes more congested which means more tackling/bumping/mauls, the bigger oval allows players to be spread out and the game to flow which is more enjoyment for the kids. Ask the kids what they would prefer.
Another plus for playing the whole oval is teaching the kids positioning, which helps when you have the lines to work with, with a 3/4 oval kids get lost and drawn to the ball which makes it worse.
The SFL has set oval sizes for under 10's, the problem I feel arises is that the co-ordinators (already burdened with numerous tasks) for most clubs anyway dont bother adhering to these size regulations because it means measuring out the oval for one game only then under 12's, 14's and 16's that follow use the full oval.
If clubs measured out the oval including the centre square which some clubs do, this would alleviate the problem some what. Full oval in under 10's at Cove, MVP or Brighton might be ok but what about Bice oval, Marion or Happy Valley. This only results in a few goals being kicked for the whole match.
As for the rules I think they work fine and cater for all skill levels especially in under 8's however I think the kids should be encouraged to smother the ball as a way to get the ball off the opposition with no tackling or knocking the ball from there hands.