Competition Rules for Under 11 and Under 12
In Under 11 and Under 12, games are played in four 15 minute quarters, with no time on.
As the children get older, the number of players in a team will increase. In Under 11 and Under 12, teams are made up of a minimum of 12 players, with a maximum of 15 players.
The number of players on the ground must be equal. A coach may interchange at any time, but all players should play at least three quarters.
Teams are encouraged to minimise the number of reserve players, so all children get to play on game day.
While in younger age groups, only those players designated a forward can score. In Under 11 and Under 12, any player can score. After a behind, the player kicking in cannot dispose to themselves.
A ball up is contested between two centre players of similar height, as nominated by the umpire. Only centre line players attend centre bounces, with a 20m clearance from all other players. A similar 20m clearance zone is enforced for field ball ups, and no more than three players from each team should be within that zone. No full possession is permitted.
When a ball is out of bounds from a kick, a free kick is awarded to the closest opponent. A player cannot kick a goal from this free kick.
Junior AFL Rules
Children in Under 11 and Under 12 are introduced to tackling, A player in possession of the ball may be tackled by an opponent wrapping both arms around the area below the top of the shoulders, and on/above the knees. This is known as the wrap around tackle.
No player shall be deliberately dumped or thrown to the ground in a tackle.
A tackle can come from the side or from behind, providing a tackle from behind doesn’t thrust forward the player with the ball.
A player with the ball who is tackled should be given a reasonable chance to dispose of the ball by kick or by handball, or by attempting to kick or handball. If he or she fails to do so, a free kick shall be awarded to the tackler for holding the ball.
The field umpire shall conduct a ball up when the player with the ball has it held to the body by an opponent, unless the player has had a reasonable time to dispose of it prior to being tackled. In that case, a free kick shall be awarded to the tackler for holding the ball.
If the tackle knocks the ball out of a player’s hands, play continues.
A player, who is held by an opponent when not in possession of the ball, shall be awarded a free kick.
Knocking or stealing the ball from an opponent’s hands is permitted.
Smothering is permitted, as is shepherding and fending off a player with an open hand to the body (provided it is not above the shoulders or in the back).
No barging or chopping past opponents is allowed.
A mark is awarded when a player catches the ball directly from another player’s kick, but the ball must have travelled at least 10m.
When running with the ball, a player must bounce it within 15m. Only two bounces are permitted.
Kicking off the ground is not permitted unless accidental.
Canada Bay Cannons
In U12, players become part of our Canada Bay Cannons teams.
The Cannons is a Club Alliance, established with neighbouring Concord Giants, to provide our youth teams with options for up to two teams per age group. This allows us to have competitive and participation based options, and increased access to coaching resources.
At this level, youth players are graded and placed in teams on football ability and their commitment to the sport. New players are welcome. Some rules are still modified. Games are played on Sunday.
While players and families in our Cannons teams are still very much part of Drummoyne Power, the youth play in a different uniform and have separate presentation days.
Spirit of the Game
While players in U11 and U12 groups are becoming more skilled and more competitive, football should be about fun, friendship and fitness.
In Under 12, a 60-point mercy rule is applied. Where the score difference between two teams equals or exceeds 60 points, scoring will stop and the end score will only ever be 60 points. While the rest of the game will be played out, the coaches are encouraged to even up the skill levels of the teams.
All participants are reminded of the Codes of Conduct for players, parents, coaches and officials.
Players, coaches, officials and umpires should shake hands before and after the game…. and don’t forget three cheers for the umpires and the group huddle for the team song!
This is just a summary of the rules. If you would like further information, check out the AFL Sydney Juniors 2019 Competition Rules and Bylaws.
If you have any further questions, please contact Drummoyne Power.