GLADESVILLE SHARKS FC
MiniRoos Football (Ages 5–11)
A fun-first introduction to team football for young players in Gladesville, Ryde, Putney and surrounding areas.
Mini-Roos at Gladesville Sharks FC is where your child’s football journey begins. Tailored for players aged 5 to 11, our program focuses on fun, friendship, and foundational skill development in a safe and inclusive environment. Whether your child dreams of scoring goals or simply wants to run around with mates, Mini-Roos is designed to get kids loving the game from the first kick.
Our teams train once a week and play non-competitive games against other local clubs during the Winter season (April to August). Mixed (boys & girls) teams play on Saturdays, while girls-only teams play on Sundays.
With squad sizes kept small to maximise participation, and training held at our home ground—Morrison Bay Park—it’s the perfect way for kids to stay active, build confidence, and make lifelong friends.
- Open to kids turning 5 through 11 in 2026
- No experience required—just enthusiasm and a pair of boots!
- Games played locally—no long travel required
- Structured by age to ensure development at the right pace
Sydney FC Skyblue Pathways Training Program
Registration into our MiniRoo program includes automatic entry into the Sydney FC Sky Blue Pathways Training Program. Whether your child is just kicking off their football journey or already loves the game, Sky Blue Pathways delivers professional coaching, clear development pathways, and unparalleled opportunities—right here at your local club.
Why MiniRoos Works
Here’s what makes MiniRoos the perfect introduction to club football:
More Time on the Ball
Smaller teams mean more involvement for each player, helping them build skills quickly and stay engaged throughout the game.
Simplified Rules
No offsides, no complex free kicks—just football that flows! This keeps the game moving and allows kids to focus on playing, not memorising rules.
Confidence Through Play
Children are encouraged to try new things, make mistakes, and learn in a positive environment—without pressure from scores or standings.
Fitness That’s Fun
Mini-Roos keeps kids moving in a way that’s enjoyable and age-appropriate. It’s a great way to build healthy habits and develop coordination.
Teamwork and Friendships
Whether they’ve just met or been friends for years, kids build lasting friendships and learn the value of working as a team.
Everyone Gets a Go
How to Register
Joining Gladesville Sharks FC is easy:
- Visit our Registration Page at sharksfc.org.au/registration
- Follow the instructions to register via PlayFootball
- Be sure to nominate your child’s preferred team or age group (if known)
- Keep an eye on your email for team allocation and season start info
If you need help, our committee is always happy to assist—just email registrar@sharksfc.org.au
Expression of Interest 2026
Game Formats by Age
Mini-Roos is all about learning and enjoyment. That’s why we structure games differently as children grow, ensuring they play in an environment suited to their age, size, and stage of development.
Here’s how our Mini-Roos teams are set up at Gladesville Sharks FC:
| Age Group | Format | Field Size | Ball Size | Game Duration | Goalkeeper | Offside Rule |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U5–U7 | 4 v 4 | Approx. 30m x 20m | Size 3 | 2 x 20‑minute halves | No | No |
| U8–U9 | 7 v 7 | Approx. 40m x 30m | Size 3 | 2 x 20‑minute halves | Yes | No |
| U10–U11 | 9 v 9 | Approx. 60m x 40m | Size 4 | 2 x 25‑minute halves | Yes | No |
Games are played locally each weekend (Saturday for mixed teams, Sunday for girls)
No finals, ladders —just football for fun and development
This age-based progression allows players to grow their skills naturally, without pressure, while preparing them for full-field football in the years to come.
Training & Game Day Info
We know families are busy—so we keep things structured, predictable, and simple to manage. Here’s what to expect throughout the MiniRoos season:
Sky Blue Pathways Training Program
Our training sessions, facilitated by Sydney FC accredited coaches focus on core skills—like passing, dribbling, and teamwork—all in a fun and supportive environment.
| Location | Frequency | Duration | Coach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morrison Bay Park, Putney (our home ground) | One training session per week, typically on a weekday afternoon | Around 45–60 minutes depending on age | Led by a parent volunteer with guidance and resources provided by the club |
Game Day
| Days | Location | Season Length | Game Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mixed teams:Saturday mornings Girls-only teams:Sunday mornings |
Local fields in the Northern Suburbs Football Association (NWSF) | April through August (aligned with school terms) | Varies by age (see Game Format section above) |
End-of-Season Celebration
All MiniRoos players receive a trophy at our club-wide presentation day to celebrate their commitment, growth, and love of the game.
Get Involved – Coaches & Managers
Our MiniRoos teams rely on volunteer coaches and managers—often parents or guardians—who help guide our young players each week.
No experience? No worries. We provide all the training, resources, and support you need.
If you’re keen to get involved, check out our Coaches & Managers page to learn more and register your interest.
Gladesville Sharks FC MiniRoos Football– FAQs
What age can my child start playing MiniRoos?
Children must be turning 5 during the calendar year to be eligible for our MiniRoos Under 5 teams. If your child is aged 3–4, our Little Fins Program is the perfect place to start their football journey.
What are the registration fees?
Can boys and girls play together?
Absolutely! We offer mixed (boys and girls) teams that play on Saturdays, and girls-only teams that play on Sundays.
Can my child play with their friends?
How are teams formed and when do we find out?
Teams are formed based on age, prior participation, and availability. A placement day is held to finalise teams, and parents are notified of their child’s placement shortly after.
How many players are in a team?
We follow MiniRoos guidelines:
- U6 & U7: 4-a-side, no goalkeepers – recommended squad size: 6
- U8 & U9: 7-a-side, includes goalkeeper – recommended squad size: 9
- U10 & U11: 9-a-side, includes goalkeeper – recommended squad size: 11
When and where is training held?
Training is held at Morrison Bay Park. The day and time are set by the team’s volunteer coach, so they may vary depending on coach availability.
When and where are matches played?
Games are scheduled by North West Sydney Football. Mixed teams play on Saturdays, and girls-only teams on Sundays. Matches are typically held in the morning and are played against local clubs within the association.
What to Bring Each Week
To make sure your child is ready to train and play safely and comfortably, please ensure they bring:
- Football boots or runners
- Water bottle
- Club kit (jersey, shorts, socks, shin pads)
- Hat and sunscreen for sunny days
- We recommend labelling all items to avoid mix-ups!
When does the season start?
Registrations open in January, team placements happen in February, and training begins in March. The season usually kicks off in early April and runs through to August.
What uniform and gear do players need?
All new MiniRoo players receive a Soccer Starter Kit that includes:
- Playing jersey (to be returned at season’s end)
- Shorts
- Socks
- Shin guards
- A training ball
Returning players can re-use gear or purchase additional items from the club.
Do you offer additional development opportunities?
Yes! Throughout the year we run:
- School of Sharks Holiday Camps
- Player Academy Skills Sessions
- Sydney FC Sky Blue Pathways Program
These are fantastic opportunities for kids to build confidence, learn from experienced coaches, and improve their skills in a supportive environment.