Parent guides › U14
For parents · Ages 13–14 · 11v11U14 soccer:
what parents should expect
By U14, your job changes. Your child needs less instruction and more room. The good news is that this is a fun age to watch, because players start to run the game themselves.
At U14, you move from coach to driver and fan.
What the game looks like
U14 plays 11v11 on the full pitch. Heading is allowed from U14. Leagues can vary, so check yours.
What your child is working on
Players now learn phases of play: how to build against a press, how to win the ball back, how to time a run. Coaches at this age talk in principles, not plays, because the players should be running the game. If your child can explain why the team does something, that is a great sign.
Your role now
Teenagers often do not want to talk right after a game. That is not a problem. Be the person who drives, feeds and shows up. Be available when they want to talk, and try not to start the conversation yourself.
What a good practice looks like
Sessions run about 90 minutes and are planned around the next game. A tactical session might work on building against the press, with something lighter closer to the match. Teams talk about principles such as Look First.
Your child may start using words you do not know. That is a good sign.
What is normal at this age
- One-word answers in the car.
- Not wanting you to watch, then being upset if you miss a game.
- Caring more about teammates than results.
- Comparing themselves with players they see online.
Good signs
- They get themselves ready: gear, water, on time.
- They can explain why the team lost without blaming anyone.
- They talk to teammates on the field.
- They ask the coach a question.
How you can help
- Let them handle their own schedule, gear and messages to the coach.
- Ask one question at most. Or none.
- Keep school, sleep and friends in the mix.
- Stop analyzing the game unless they ask.
About heading
Heading is allowed from U14, so your child may start practicing it. If you have questions about how the team teaches it, ask the coach. If your child takes a knock to the head, follow your league’s concussion rules and see a doctor.
After the game
Say something kind and leave it there.
“Want to get food?”
Questions parents ask
Should my child try out for the high school team?
If they want to, yes. Talk to their club coach about the schedule early so nobody is surprised.
Can U14 players head the ball?
Yes. Heading is allowed from U14.
My teenager doesn’t want to talk about soccer. Should I worry?
Usually no. Keep showing up. If they have stopped enjoying it, that is a different conversation, and it is worth having away from the field.
Rec or travel? ›Is my child behind? ›My child wants to quit ›What to say after a game ›U14 drills and practice plans ›Next: what to expect at U15+ ›Field sizes and rules by age ›What age group is my child in? ›