From First Kicks to Future Stars: Soccer Playing Options for Girls 5-12

Soccer is one of the fastest-growing sports for girls in Australia. For girls aged 5-12, playing soccer builds confidence, friendships, teamwork, and a sense of empowerment that flows into every part of life.

If you’re a parent looking to support your daughter’s sporting journey, here are the main soccer playing options for girls in this age group:

1. Little Kickers (Ages 1.5-7)

Little Kickers is an introductory soccer program for very young children, with classes starting from 18 months up to 7 years old. It combines soccer with early learning concepts in a fun, imaginative way.

• Ages: 18 months – 7 years
• Format: Classes grouped by age and developmental stage
• Focus: Basic soccer skills, coordination, confidence, and social skills
• Benefits: Safe, supportive environment with qualified coaches; ideal for first exposure to sport

2. Soccer Joeys (Ages 3-12)

Soccer Joeys offers non-competitive soccer programs for boys and girls aged 3-12 years. The focus is on skills development in a fun and inclusive environment.

• Ages: Divided into younger (3-5) and older (6-12) groups
• Format: Weekly classes with skills drills, games, and small-sided matches
• Benefits: Builds technical skills and confidence without the pressure of formal competition
• Where to find: Sessions are held at various indoor and outdoor venues nationwide

3. Soccerwise (Various Locations)

Soccerwise runs soccer coaching clinics, after-school programs, and holiday camps across Australia for children aged 4-12.

• Ages: Typically 4-12 years, with groups tailored to ability and age
• Format: Fun, skills-based learning with small games and tactical understanding as kids progress
• Benefits: Great for both beginners and kids wanting extra skills practice alongside club soccer
• Ideal for: Holiday enrichment or boosting confidence before joining a team

4. Miniroos for Girls (Ages 5-11)

Miniroos is Football Australia’s introductory program for children aged 5-11, with many clubs offering girls-only teams to encourage participation in a comfortable environment.

• Format: Small-sided games (4v4, 7v7) focusing on fun, learning, and inclusivity
• Benefits: Builds foundational soccer skills, confidence, and friendships
• Where to find: Local football clubs across Australia under the Football Australia Miniroos program

5. Club-Based Teams (From 8-9 Years Onwards)

As girls progress, they can join local club teams to play in structured competitions.

• Format: Training sessions during the week and weekend matches against other clubs
• Benefits: Higher level of coaching, teamwork skills, and structured gameplay experience
• Pathway: Ideal for girls aiming to progress into representative teams or academies later

6. Soccer Academies & Skills Clinics

For girls passionate about advancing their soccer, academies provide professional coaching environments.

• Ages: Usually from 8 years onwards
• Focus: Technical development, tactical skills, fitness, and mental resilience
• Commitment: Higher; often requires trials and is a steppingstone to elite pathways

Which Option is Best for Your Daughter?

Consider:

✅ Her age, readiness, and confidence
✅ Whether she prefers girls-only or mixed settings
✅ Her goals – fun, social play, or competitive progression
✅ Your family’s schedule and local availability

Choosing the right soccer program for your daughter is about finding the perfect balance of fun, skill development, and confidence-building. Whether she’s just starting out with a beginner program like Little Kickers or ready to join a competitive club team, there’s a soccer option designed to help her thrive.

At Hero Athletica, we’re proud to support young female athletes every step of the way — providing performance gear that empowers them to feel strong and unstoppable on and off the field.

Encourage her passion, celebrate every goal, and watch her grow into the hero she’s meant to be.