U12 Mustangs Football (Atom)

A supportive step up in skill, teamwork, and confidence

U12 Atom football is the next stage in a young athlete’s development with the St. Vital Mustangs. Designed for 10 and 11 year olds, this level introduces more structure, more teamwork, and a slightly larger game format — while still keeping the focus on fun, safety, and learning.

Players do not need previous football experience. Many join the sport for the first time at U12.

Who Can Play?

  • Boys and girls aged 10–11

  • No prior football experience required

  • All equipment provided by the Mustangs

  • Families living in the Mustangs catchment area

Whether your child is returning from U10 or trying football for the first time, Atom is a welcoming and supportive environment.

Team Format

U12 teams across the MMFA play 9‑person football, which is a natural progression from the 6‑person U10 format.

This format helps players:

  • Learn more positions

  • Develop teamwork and communication

  • Experience a more complete version of the game

  • Build confidence in a structured environment

Roster size:

  • Minimum: 22 players

  • Maximum: 36 players

This ensures teams have enough depth for safe, balanced practices and games.

Season Timeline

The Mustangs follow the MMFA’s city‑wide schedule:

May

Registration opens and families secure their spot.

June–July

Optional practices begin.

Players are never penalized for missing early‑summer practices.

Late July

  • Rosters finalized

  • Coaches meeting

  • Game schedule released

August–October

Regular season games begin.

U12 does have playoffs, giving players a fun introduction to competitive structure.

Practices

U12 practices are energetic, structured, and focused on skill development. A typical session includes:

  • Warm‑ups and athletic movement

  • Position‑specific drills (QB, RB, WR, OL, DL, LB, DB)

  • Team concepts (offense, defense, special teams)

  • Controlled scrimmages

  • Positive reinforcement and team‑building

Practices are usually 2–3 times per week, depending on coach availability and field access.

Games

U12 games are played on a larger field than U10, with full officiating and MMFA rules.

Parents can expect:

  • A supportive, family‑friendly atmosphere

  • Coaches rotating players through positions

  • A balance of development and competition

  • Clear communication from the coaching staff

  • A safe, well‑organized game environment

Spectators sit on the designated side of the field to keep sidelines safe and clear.

Equipment

The Mustangs provide:

  • Helmet

  • Shoulder pads

  • Game jersey

  • Game pants

Families provide:

  • Cleats

  • Mouthguard

  • Practice clothing

All club‑issued equipment is certified and inspected for safety.

Coaching & Support

Mustangs coaches are trained, screened, and committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment. They focus on:

  • Teaching proper technique

  • Building confidence

  • Encouraging teamwork

  • Ensuring every child feels included and valued

Parents are welcome to volunteer in a variety of roles — no football experience required.

What Kids Gain

U12 Mustangs football helps young athletes develop:

  • Confidence and resilience

  • Teamwork and communication

  • Physical literacy and coordination

  • Discipline and focus

  • Friendships and belonging

Players learn the game in a positive, structured environment that prepares them for future levels of football.