This is a guide for 9-11 year old soccer players and their parents on all soccer positions.
G’day Soccajoeys families! Whether your young footballer is just starting out or looking to find their perfect position on the pitch, understanding the different roles in soccer can make the game so much more exciting. Let’s break down where players stand, what they do, and how each position helps the team succeed.
The Beautiful Game’s Layout
A soccer team has 11 players on the field, and each player has a specific job to do. Think of it like a well-oiled machine where every part is important. The field is divided into three main areas: defence, midfield, and attack. Let’s explore each one!
The Goalkeeper (GK): The Last Line of Defence
What they do: The goalkeeper is the only player who can use their hands (but only in the penalty box!). They protect the goal and stop the opposition from scoring.
Key skills:
- Quick reflexes and hand-eye coordination
- Bravery and confidence
- Good communication (they can see the whole field!)
- Strong throwing and kicking ability
Perfect for kids who: Love being involved in every moment, enjoy diving and making saves, and aren’t afraid to be the hero or learn from mistakes.
Defenders: The Protective Shield
Centre-Backs (CB)
What they do: These are the main defenders who play in the middle of the defence, right in front of the goalkeeper. They’re like bodyguards for the goal!
Key skills:
- Strong tackling and heading
- Good positioning
- Physical strength
- Reading the game
Perfect for kids who: Are strong, brave, and love the challenge of stopping attackers.
Full-Backs (Left-Back/Right-Back)
What they do: These defenders play on the sides of the field. They stop wingers from getting past and also run forward to help attack.
Key skills:
- Speed and stamina (they run a lot!)
- Good at one-on-one defending
- Crossing the ball
- Quick decision-making
Perfect for kids who: Love to run up and down the sideline and enjoy both defending and attacking.
Midfielders: The Engine Room
Midfielders are often called the heart of the team because they connect defence and attack. There are several types:
Defensive Midfielder (CDM)
What they do: They sit in front of the defence, breaking up opposition attacks and protecting the back line.
Key skills:
- Tackling and intercepting
- Simple, effective passing
- Stamina and work rate
- Discipline and positioning
Perfect for kids who: Are hardworking, love to win the ball back, and don’t mind doing the “dirty work.”
Central Midfielder (CM)
What they do: These all-rounders do a bit of everything. They defend, attack, pass, and link up play between teammates.
Key skills:
- Passing accuracy
- Football intelligence
- Good fitness
- Vision to spot passes
Perfect for kids who: Love being involved in the game constantly and enjoy both scoring and defending.
Attacking Midfielder (CAM)
What they do: They play behind the strikers and create goal-scoring chances with clever passes and dribbling.
Key skills:
- Creativity and flair
- Excellent passing and vision
- Dribbling ability
- Shooting from distance
Perfect for kids who: Love to be creative, enjoy tricks and skills, and like setting up goals for teammates.
Wingers (Left Wing/Right Wing)
What they do: Wingers play on the sides of the pitch and use their speed to get past defenders and cross the ball into the box.
Key skills:
- Speed and acceleration
- Dribbling and ball control
- Crossing accuracy
- One-on-one skills
Perfect for kids who: Are quick, love taking on defenders, and enjoy the excitement of running at opponents.
Forwards: The Goal Scorers
Striker/Centre-Forward
What they do: The main goal scorer! Strikers play closest to the opposition goal and their job is to put the ball in the net.
Key skills:
- Finishing and shooting
- Movement in the box
- Heading ability
- Staying calm under pressure
Perfect for kids who: Love scoring goals, have good instincts in front of goal, and thrive under pressure.
Second Striker/Supporting Forward
What they do: They play just behind the main striker, helping to create chances and score goals too.
Key skills:
- Link-up play
- Movement and positioning
- Versatility
- Goal-scoring ability
Perfect for kids who: Enjoy a mix of creating and scoring, and like working closely with teammates.
Finding Your Child’s Best Position
Here’s the exciting part: at age 9-11, most kids are still discovering where they shine! Here are some tips for parents:
Try everything: At Soccajoeys, we encourage kids to experience different positions. Today’s winger might become tomorrow’s defender!
Watch for natural strengths: Does your child love making saves? Are they super quick? Do they have a powerful shot? These clues can help identify their natural position.
Consider their personality: Outgoing kids might love the spotlight of being a striker, while thoughtful kids might excel as midfield playmakers.
Focus on fundamentals: At this age, learning basic skills like passing, dribbling, and ball control matters more than specialising in one position.
It’s okay to change: Professional players often switch positions as they grow. Gareth Bale started as a left-back before becoming a superstar winger!
Remember: They’re Not Limited to Just ‘One’ Soccer Role
Today’s soccer is all about players who can do multiple jobs. Many teams use formations where players switch positions during the game. This versatility is brilliant for young players to develop because it helps them:
- Understand the whole game better
- Develop a wider range of skills
- Become more valuable team players
- Keep training fun and interesting
Key Takeaways for Soccajoeys Families
For Kids:
- Every position is important and valuable
- The best players work hard for the team, no matter where they play
- Trying different positions makes you a better overall player
- Have fun and enjoy learning!
For Parents:
- Don’t pressure your child to play a specific position
- Celebrate effort and teamwork, not just goals
- Support your child’s natural interests and abilities
- Remember, at this age, development and enjoyment come first
Let’s Play!
Understanding positions is just the beginning. At Soccajoeys, we help every child discover where they can contribute to the team while building confidence, fitness, and a lifelong love of the beautiful game. Whether your young footballer dreams of being the next Mat Ryan, Sam Kerr, or simply wants to have fun with mates, there’s a perfect spot on the field for everyone.
So grab those boots, get out on the pitch, and let’s find out where your child shines! See you at training, champions!
Want to learn more about developing your child’s soccer skills? Contact Soccajoeys today to get started in our Premier Soccer Program for kids aged 9-11 and find a program near you!
