Children’s football in Denmark is currently thriving, undergoing significant transitions that aim to enhance the experience for young players. A recent annual report from DBU Children’s Football reveals a year marked by strong collaboration between regional associations, clubs, and the Danish Football Association. This teamwork is steering the game for young athletes closer to its ambition of becoming a world leader in youth football.
Key Developments in Danish Children’s Football
In July 2025, the DBU board made a pivotal decision to extend its children’s football strategy. This shift signifies a transition from rollout to consolidation, emphasizing the importance of on-pitch experiences for the youngest players. The report sheds light on several crucial areas of development:
- Updates to playing formats in children’s football have transformed how youngsters engage with the sport, with systematic changes implemented over the years.
- DBU Football Festivals serve as a platform that unites thousands of children, fostering a sense of community while encouraging more girls to participate in football.
- The innovative “+1” pilot program on Lolland-Falster provides all 9- to 12-year-olds with access to extra training, which is currently being assessed as a potential national model.
- Quality assurance in clubs is a priority, demonstrated by the evaluation of DBU Børneklub as a benchmark for excellence in children’s football.
- There is a concerted effort towards closer collaboration with regional associations, including a comprehensive review of match activities and the overall children’s strategy.
- Additional initiatives across the country are being implemented to shape a brighter future for young players in the sport.
The report also emphasizes the invaluable contributions of volunteers, club leaders, and staff who create nurturing environments on the pitches and within clubhouses throughout the nation. Their dedication is crucial in maintaining the positive growth and sustainability of children’s football in Denmark.