Many people enjoy casual kickabouts for fun or exercise but myths can hold newcomers back. We at Football for All know that ideas like “you must be good to join” or “it’s only for men or youngsters” are wrong. Midweek football games are relaxed, friendly and open to everyone, yet players often hear false beliefs that stop them trying out. In this post we debunk seven common casual kickabouts myths.
#1. You have to be good to join
It’s easy to assume you need to be skilled before you can join a small-sided game. In reality, casual kickabouts are made for all levels. Official sources even describe recreational sessions as informal games where everyone’s welcome (England Football). These games run for people of all ages and skill leveles and beginners often join in. Teams are usually balanced and friendly, so new players can take part without feeling out of place. The point is to have a good time, not proving how good you are. The more you play, the better you’ll become so it’s fine to start off with less experience.
#2. It’s only for youngens
Some think casual kickabouts are only for teenagers or young adults. Actually, these games span all ages. You’ll often see a mix of adults and older players, sometimes even seniors. Age isn’t a barrier. A 30-year-old or 60-year-old can play just as easily. We make sure the games to suit whoever turns up so there’s no upper age limit. Casual kickabouts are not “just for kids”. It’s for anyone who wants to play.
#3. You have to have full gear
Another common myth is that you need expensive kit to play. Actually, casual games are low-key about equipment. Typically you just need comfortable sportswear and suitable footwear. Trainers or astroturf boots are fine for most games. You do not need a full team uniform. Game hosts often have bibs to split teams so you don’t even need matching shirts. Shin pads are optional and a ball might be handy. People often overthink these things, but the emphasis is on fun, not uniforms. You really don’t need top tier gear to join a kickabout. A positive atiitutude is more than enough.
#4. No need for a proper organiser
You might hear that casual games just happen and don’t need anyone organising them. The truth is, almost every session has a host or organiser behind the scenes. Someone usually books the pitch, schedules the time or advertises the game. Many groups use apps or community pages to coordinate. For example, the Footy Addicts platform even suggests players can become a game organiser if they can’t find a match. In practice, this means there is always someone planning things so the game can run smoothly. You can often just turn up but that spot wasn’t random. A volunteer or an app made it happen.
#5. It’s all men, women don’t play
The idea that casual kickabouts are only for men is outdated. Women play small-sided football too, in both mixed and women-only games. Dedicated women’s sessions have also grown, run by local groups and platforms. All skill levels of women join these games weekly. In either co-ed or women-only sessions, the focus is on creating more opportunities to play. We say this often but football truly is for everyone, gender doesn’t matter. Tthere’s no reason women shouldn’t play and enjoy casual games just like men.
#6. You have to be part of the group or bring a friend
It’s often said that you can’t join a kickabout unless you know someone already or you’re a part of a closed group. In fact, many games welcome individual players. You can book and show up on your own and organisers or other players will put you in a team. New players often meet people this way. The game will go ahead even if you come solo because teams are formed by whoever turns up. Don’t feel you must bring a buddy, just sign up, come along and introduce yourself.
#7. You can’t join if you’ve not played in years
Some think that after a long break from football, they’re too rusty to join a kickabout. Actually, casual football is perfect for players returning after time off. The relaxed setting means there’s little pressure to perform. Even if it’s been ages since you played, football never really leaves you. Fellow players will understand you’re getting back into it. Everyone was a beginner or came back at some point. These games are open to you whenever you feel ready.
Now that those common myths are out the way, the path to play should feel much easier. Casual football is meant to be friendly and welcoming. You don’t need to be great at it. Just bring a bit of energy and a pair of boots. Look around your area for a Football for All game, a local group or something you find online, there’s probably a session that suits you. Chances are, you’ll be glad you did.
