The Foundation Phase is for children aged between six and nine years old.

The principles and rules of the Foundation Phase are similar to those in association football, except that the pitches are smaller and there are fewer players on each team (5v5 and 7v7).

Benefits of Foundation Phase:
• More touches of the ball: to increase participation and enjoyment
• Fewer players on the pitch: meaning simpler decisions and better understanding
• Smaller pitches: generates greater concentration and interest among participants
• More individual success: leads to more children playing which, in the long term, leads to sustained participation levels beyond this age group

There are five Sanctioned Foundation Phase leagues for girls in Lancashire.

Poulton and District Primary League (U8-U10s)
Bolton, Bury & District Football League (U7-U10s)
East Lancashire Football Alliance (U8-U10s)
Wigan & District Youth League (U10s)
Lancaster & Morecambe Service to Youth League (U10s)