Purpose: Set up age-appropriate fields using step-counts when measuring tools aren’t available.
Setting up the correct field dimensions is essential for ensuring that players experience realistic game-like conditions appropriate to their age and development level. Accurate field size affects space, tempo, decision-making, and the physical demands placed on players. When measuring tools aren’t available, using steps is a simple and effective way to create consistent, appropriately scaled playing areas.
Average Step Lengths
- Male Coach: ~2.5 feet (0.83 yards) per step
- Female Coach: ~2.2 feet (0.73 yards) per step
Conversion:
- 1 yard = ~1.2 male steps OR ~1.37 female steps
- 10 yards = ~12 male steps OR ~14 female steps
Recommended Field Dimensions by Outfield Players
| Format | Outfield Players | Field Size (Yards) | Male Steps (L x W) | Female Steps (L x W) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11v11 | 10 | 115 x 74 | 138 x 89 | 158 x 101 |
| 10v10 | 9 | 105 x 64 | 126 x 77 | 144 x 88 |
| 9v9 | 8 | 96 x 56 | 115 x 67 | 132 x 77 |
| 8v8 | 7 | 84 x 49 | 101 x 59 | 115 x 67 |
| 7v7 | 6 | 72 x 42 | 87 x 50 | 99 x 58 |
| 6v6 | 5 | 60 x 35 | 72 x 42 | 82 x 48 |
| 5v5 | 4 | 48 x 28 | 58 x 34 | 66 x 39 |
| 4v4 | 3 | 36 x 21 | 43 x 25 | 49 x 29 |
| 3v3 | 2 | 24 x 14 | 29 x 17 | 33 x 19 |
| 2v2 / 1v1 | 1 | 12 x 7 | 14 x 8 | 17 x 10 |
Tips for Coaches
- Measure with Consistency: Use heel-to-toe walking strides and repeat across sessions.
- Mark Corners First: Start by stepping the length, marking each corner, then measure width.
- Adjust Based on Goals: Smaller field = more technique & tactics. Larger field = more physical stress.
- Use Cones or Flags: Clearly define boundaries for safety and clarity.
- Practice Ahead: Rehearse step-count setups before practice to save time.