Made for Parent Coaches
You signed up because your kid needed a coach and nobody else stepped forward. Now you're Googling "what formation for U10 soccer" at 10pm the night before a game. Sound familiar?
Pitch Plotter is a free lineup builder that makes the tactical side simple. Pick a format, choose a formation, add your players' names, and you're done. No coaching software to learn, no account to create, no training videos to watch.
Pro tip: At younger ages (U6–U10), keep it simple. A basic formation like 2-3-1 for 7v7 or 3-2-1 for small-sided games works great. Focus on getting kids into positions, not tactical complexity.
Works for All Youth Formats
5v5
U6, U7, U8
Small-sided
7v7
U9, U10
Youth leagues
9v9
U11, U12
Transitional
11v11
U13+
Full field
Pitch Plotter supports 5v5, 7v7, and 11v11 formats. For 9v9 games, use the 11v11 builder and leave two positions empty, or use it to plan your core shape.
Why Parents Love It
Dead Simple
If you can use your phone, you can use this. No learning curve.
5 Minutes Max
Build your lineup on the drive to the field if you have to.
Show the Kids
Visual lineup image is easier for kids to understand than verbal instructions.
Share with Parents
Drop the lineup in the team group so everyone knows the plan.
Practical Tips for Youth Lineups
- Rotate positions: Let every kid play different spots throughout the season. It's good for development and keeps them engaged.
- Balance playing time: Use the subs bench feature to track who's starting and who's coming on.
- Keep formations simple: At young ages, complex formations confuse kids. Stick to basics.
- Share early: Send the lineup the night before so kids (and parents) can mentally prepare.
- Be flexible: Someone always gets sick or doesn't show up. Having a visual lineup makes it easier to reorganize on the spot.
Common Youth Formations
Not sure what formation to use? Here are some popular choices:
- 5v5 (U6-U8): 1-2-1 (diamond) or 2-1-1 — keep it simple, let them chase the ball.
- 7v7 (U9-U10): 2-3-1 or 3-2-1 — balanced shapes that teach positioning basics.
- 9v9 (U11-U12): 3-2-3 or 3-3-2 — transitional formats before full-field.
- 11v11 (U13+): 4-3-3, 4-4-2, or 4-2-3-1 — depends on your players' strengths.
Ready to Build Your Youth Lineup?
Simple enough for any parent coach. Takes less than 5 minutes.
Open the Lineup Builder →