First Kicks 

Teams

We want children to have fun and fall in love with the game. For First Kicks, teams are organised on the day, to ensure a balance of skills and friendship. There is no competition ladder for these age groups, no recorded results and no table keeping. We follow a positive coaching framework; we encourage players positively and let them PLAY.

Game day

First kicks refers to U5s, U6s, and U7s.

First kicks are at home (Mangawhai Domain) every week, kick off at 9am and finish by 10am. We have a parent coach led training session for 20 – 30 mins followed by game time; 2-3 x 8-12 minute games.

Cancellations will be notified via facebook and the Coachmate app.

Football rules for First Kicks

  • 3 vs 3 format (ideally no substitutes) with no goalkeepers (can be 4 vs 4 dependent on numbers)
  • Retreating line is halfway
  • No offsides, no penalties, no free kicks and no cards (educate on player behaviour)
  • No throw ins.  If the ball goes out, the opposite team kick or dribble the ball back in from the side-line
  • Kick off – pass or dribble from halfway
  • No corners.  If the ball goes behind the goal, then the defending team restart from their base line “goal kick”.  The attacking team to retreat to the half-way line.

Game day management

It would be great if each team has one or two managers on site to help with substitutions and rotations (no limit).  Coaches and managers can go on the field on game day if the children need some “directional” help. In those situations, the manager will stop the game quickly and intervene then leave the space (30 seconds in and out).

All grades are required to clear all mini-goals, cones/flat markers and kit bags and take them back to the club shed after their games.

Cancellations

Game day cancellations will be notified on the Club’s Facebook page and via the CoachMate App.

What gear is required

The Club supplies playing bibs, shirts and shorts. Players are required to buy black socks.

Children must also have boots, shin pads and a water bottle for game day. 


More information from NRF on First Kicks   https://www.sporty.co.nz/asset/downloadasset?id=4ac7afbf-9cf6-43ba-bc2f-873eaf40eec6