Football Queensland has today confirmed the Under 13 playing format for 2023 and beyond, with the U13 age cohort set to transition to a 9v9 format from next season. 

Following the specific technical recommendation from Football Australia in line with global best practice, the 9v9 format will be in place across all competitions across Queensland (mixed/girls and community/advanced) from 2023. 

“The transition to 9v9 for Under 13 competitions across Queensland follows consultation with Technical Directors and clubs across the entire state,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said. 

“The feedback received was overwhelmingly in favour of a transition to the 9v9 format for the Under 13 age group, and also supported the preservation of the competitive nature of fixtures which has been adopted by Football Queensland as part of the new playing format which will include ladders and finals. 

“The new structure also aligns our state’s leagues with Football Australia’s preferred format which has already been implemented successfully by Football Victoria, and which Football NSW are working towards adopting.” 

“Football Queensland’s transition to the 9v9 playing format for Under 13 competitions brings our state in line with international best practice player development across a number of advanced football nations including Belgium, Germany and France,” FQ General Manager – Football & State Technical Director Gabor Ganczer said. 

“The new format will deliver benefits for young players through more touches on the ball and increased match minutes per player, in addition to age-appropriate field sizes that can be implemented using existing club infrastructure. 

“Thank you to all Queensland clubs and Technical Directors who provided input throughout the consultation phase. We’re pleased to have been able to adopt the feedback received and the recommendation from Football Australia to confirm the transition to the new playing format for our Under 13 competitions across the state from 2023.” 

As part of the transition to the 9v9 playing format, Under 13 fixtures will be played on smaller fields with 35-minute halves and referees and assistant referees where applicable. 

Football Queensland will continue to work with all clubs across the state to support them through this transition as the new playing format is introduced for all U13 competitions from 2023.