About / FAQs
With over 30 years of experience in sports development and event management. One Tournament ensures our tournaments are well organised and provide all participants with an enjoyable sporting experience. The goal is to be that One Tournament that players look back on when remembering their favorite football moments.
We have a range of one-off tournaments and football tours abroad throughout the year, catering to teams of all abilities and budgets. To find out more about what tournaments are on offer visit the tour tournament booking page here. Our tournament events team can also help you If you need help setting up a charity, corporate, or youth tournament. For more details please get in touch.
We also offer high-quality personalised football-related products in our shop, suitable gifts for all types of special occasions, as well as digital prints via our gallery website, which captures all those special moments at our events.
Everything You Need to Know Before Attending One Tournament 2026/27
What age groups are your tournaments for?
We run competitions for a wide range of age groups and abilities:
Boys: U7 to U19
Girls: U8 to U18
Adults: 18+, Vets, and Walking Football
Which season age groups are used?
Tournaments are based on the 2026–27 season age groups ( Apart from one called pre season in August which will be 27/28)
What tournaments are running in 2027?
One Tournament Nationals – U7 to U18 Boys and U8 to U16 Girls
The Big One / Two Day Tournament – U11 to U16 Boys and Girls
One World Club Championships – U6 to U11 Boys and Girls
The Academy One – Boys and Girls U12 TO U14 One Scholars One – Boys U17 and U19 (Post 16) One Tournament Super Small Sided 3v3 Series – U6 to U13 Boys and Girls
One Tour – We are running adults and youth tournaments abroad contact us for details via whats app
How long do tournaments last?
Tournaments typically run for 3 to 5 hours, depending on the age groups, number of teams, ask if this is crucial.
Events take place in either a morning or afternoon session.
Kick-off times are listed on each tournament’s booking page.
Do all players get a medal?
Yes – every player receives a bespoke tournament medal as a souvenir of the day.
What do the winners receive?
Winning teams get a trophy
All finalists receive bespoke winners’ and runners-up medals
At some tournaments you can progress to the next stage on a different date
How many players can we bring?
There is no official limit on squad size — we don’t want any child to miss out!
However, we ask managers to bring a sensible number to ensure all players get good
game time.
Can we bring guest players?
Yes, teams may register up to two guest players, provided they meet eligibility rules.
Guest players must be age-appropriate and not registered with your team
We have different rulings depending on which event you enter ask is unsure or read the event booking page.
Teams will be asked to provide documentation proving player eligibility in the event
that a player may not be eligible to play
If you’re unsure, contact our events team.
Can unaffiliated teams enter the One Tournament?
One Tournament Nationals and the Big One are open to affiliated teams only,
registered with a County FA for the 2026–27 season. Players must be listed on the
FA’s Whole Game System (WGS)
Some tournaments are open to both
affiliated and unaffiliated teams please ask if unsure
Can affiliated teams enter if they don’t play in a league?
Possibly. Please refer to the individual Tournament FAQ section to confirm eligibility, or ask if unsure.
Who is eligible to play?
Tournaments are open to players of all abilities.
For detailed eligibility rules, visit the specific tournament pages or contact our team.
How long are the matches?
Match length varies by age group and format. We guarantee a minimum number of minutes
per team.
Format Minimum Minutes Maximum
Minutes per day
5v5 50 minutes 80 minutes
7v7 60 minutes 90 minutes
9v9 60 minutes 100 minutes
11v11 80 minutes 120 minutes
Fixtures, formats and timings are pushed live via our website fixtures and getting ready pages for team managers 72 hours before kick-off.
Do teams need to bring player ID?
Yes – all teams must be able to show player ID documents, especially for spot checks.
Accepted ID includes:
FA WGS Registration
Club-issued Player ID cards
Birth certificate or passport (guest players only)
Do you check ID for every player?
Not all – but we do carry out spot checks.
If a player’s ID can’t be verified, they won’t be allowed to play, and the team may be
disqualified. If you want us to check a specific player come and ask us before or straight after your match, there in not much we can do once the tournament has finsihed.
Can players play up an age group?
Yes – players may play one age group up.
Age group eligibility for 2026–27 season:
Age
Group Date of Birth Range
U7 01/09/19 – 31/08/20
U8 01/09/18 – 31/08/19
U9 01/09/17 – 31/08/18
U10 01/09/16 – 31/08/17
U11 01/09/15 – 31/08/16
U12 01/09/14 – 31/08/15
U13 01/09/13 – 31/08/14
U14 01/09/12 – 31/08/13
U15 01/09/11 – 31/08/12
U16 01/09/10 – 31/08/11
U17 01/09/09 – 31/08/10
U18 01/09/08 – 31/08/09
U19 01/09/07 – 31/08/08
Note: Players must be at least 6 years old to play in U7s, as per FA rules.
Can boys and girls play in the same team?
Yes – mixed teams are allowed up to and including U16, in line with FA regulations.
What time should we arrive?
Teams may arrive up to 1 hour before the tournament starts ( remember fixtures can change on the day and you could end being on first).
Is there a manager briefing on the day?
We won’t hold live briefings due to multiple age groups running simultaneously.
Instead, team managers will receive an On-the-Day information via our getting ready pages 1 week prior to the tournament
with:
Match fixtures
Pitch maps
Arrival instructions
Tournament rules
Any last-minute updates will be shared at the registration desk on arrival.
What should players wear?
Footwear must match the playing surface:
Artificial pitches: Astroturf trainers or moulded studs only (no blades or metal studs)
Grass pitches: All footwear types permitted
All players must wear shin pads
Footwear details will be included in the On-the-Day email.
Are tournaments insured?
Yes – all tournaments are FA-sanctioned, meaning affiliated teams are covered under their
club’s public liability insurance.
However, we recommend that all teams arrange additional cover for:
Personal injury
Public liability
Travel or accommodation-related issues
One Tournament is also covered by Public & Employer Liability Insurance through One
Tournament CIC.
Can we cancel and get a refund?
Within 7 days of booking: Refund available, minus 10% admin fee
After 7 days: No refund
See our Terms & Conditions for full cancellation policies.
If your question wasn’t answered here, feel free to contact the team at
info@onetournament.uk – we’re always happy to help.
One Tournament Nationals 2027
Welcome to the One Tournament Nationals — our flagship grassroots football competition, bringing together teams from across the UK and Ireland. With nearly 6,000 players taking part annually, this is your team’s chance to compete in a professionally organised tournament and progress towards national glory.
What is the One Tournament Nationals?
The One Tournament Nationals brings together grassroots football teams through five regional heats. Winners from each heat qualify for the National Grand Final, while runners-up have the opportunity to secure a paid wildcard place.
It’s more than a football tournament. It’s an opportunity for players to test themselves against new opposition, create lasting memories and experience the excitement of national competition.
Where are the regional tournaments being held?
Our five regional heats for 2027 are:
North West: Jerico Football Hub, Liverpool — 15–16 May
North East: Bullocksteads, Newcastle — 17–18 April
Midlands: Sheffield Hallam — 29–30 May
South: Stoneham Lane, Southampton — 5–6 June
London: Elmbridge Xcel — 12–13 June
Age groups and playing days vary by venue. Visit the Nationals 2027 page for the full schedule.
Who can enter?
The competition is open to eligible grassroots clubs and school teams with the appropriate FA affiliation or international equivalent.
2026/27 age groups:
Boys: U7–U18
Girls: U8–U16
What age group should we enter?
All age categories are based on the 2026/27 football season. Please check the relevant FA age qualification guidelines or contact our team if you’re unsure which age group to enter.
When will we be playing?
Playing days and kick-off times vary by region and age group.
Visit the Nationals 2027 booking page for available dates, age groups and event information.
How does qualification work?
Teams compete in one of five regional heats.
Regional heat winners qualify for the One Tournament National Grand Final free of charge.
Runners-up are offered the option of a paid wildcard place, subject to availability.
The National Final brings together qualifying teams from across the regional competitions.
When and where are the National Finals?
Dates: Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 July 2027
Venue: Oakham School, Rutland
Saturday 3 July:
Boys U7–U12
Girls U8–U12
Sunday 4 July:
Boys U13–U18
Girls U13–U16
Regional heat winners receive free entry to the National Final. Paid wildcard places may be available for runners-up.
How much does it cost to enter?
Entry fees vary by age group, tournament format and regional venue.
Visit the Nationals 2027 page for current prices and availability.
There is no fixed squad-size cap, so clubs can manage their squads and playing time according to their needs.
Can we enter more than one team?
Yes. Clubs can enter up to two teams per age group at each regional event, subject to availability.
Can we enter multiple regions?
Absolutely. There are no geographical restrictions, and teams are welcome to enter multiple regional heats.
However, please note:
A player may only represent one team in the same age group on a particular tournament day.
If a player participates in different regional heats with different teams, they may only represent one team at the National Final.
A team can only secure one place at the National Final.
If two teams qualify using overlapping players, eligibility and team participation requirements must be followed.
For clubs travelling to other regions, we can also help with accommodation and football tour packages.
How is player eligibility managed?
Our events team carries out eligibility checks across regional heats, including spot checks on tournament days.
Players should have the appropriate registration and eligibility documentation.
FA Whole Game System (WGS) registration requirements apply where relevant.
Teams may include a maximum of two guest players who are not registered with their team.
Guest players must meet the tournament’s age and eligibility requirements.
Team managers may request an eligibility check before or immediately after a match.
What level of football is this aimed at?
The Nationals welcomes eligible affiliated grassroots teams and is particularly suited to mid- to high-level grassroots competition.
If you’re unsure whether the tournament is suitable for your team, contact us at info@onetournament.uk or WhatsApp our team.
What are the player eligibility rules?
Boys’ teams
For Boys U9–U18:
Players who have represented a Category 1 or Category 2 Premier League or EFL academy during the current 2026/27 season are not eligible.
This restriction also applies to dual-registered academy players.
Players released from an academy may be eligible if they were released at least 90 days before the tournament.
For Boys U7–U8, academy participation does not carry the same restriction.
Girls’ teams
For Girls U8–U16:
Academy players are permitted, subject to the tournament’s registration and eligibility rules.
Players should be appropriately registered on the FA Whole Game System, except where the permitted guest-player rules apply.
Teams may include a maximum of two eligible guest players.
Girls who play for boys’ teams may also participate with a girls’ team as permitted guest players.
For specific eligibility questions, email info@onetournament.uk or contact us on WhatsApp.
What are the tournament formats?
The 2027 Nationals uses the following formats:
| Age group | Format |
|---|---|
| U7–U8 | 5v5 |
| U9–U10 and U11 Girls | 7v7 |
| U11 Boys and U12 | 9v9 |
| U13–U18 | 11v11 |
Specific age groups available at each regional heat may vary.
How does the tournament work on the day?
Each regional heat takes place over approximately three hours, although timings depend on the age group and format.
Small-sided tournaments — 5v5, 7v7 and 9v9
We are aiming for two groups of four teams, followed by knockout matches for all teams.
This format is designed to give every participating team the opportunity to experience knockout football.
11v11 tournaments
One group of up to five teams per age group.
Approximately 80–90 minutes of football per team is the target.
Group winners qualify for the National Final free of charge.
Runners-up may be offered an optional paid wildcard place.
Final formats and schedules may change depending on entries, availability or late withdrawals. Our team will work to maximise playing time and communicate the final arrangements before the event.
Do you run Cup and Plate competitions?
For 2027, our aim is for every team in the small-sided tournaments to participate in knockout football after the group stage.
The exact structure will depend on the number of teams entered.
The 11v11 regional heats follow a separate group-based qualification format.
Are accommodation packages available?
Yes. We offer accommodation and football tour packages for teams travelling to regional events.
These can help turn a tournament into a full weekend experience with accommodation, activities and other football experiences.
For details, email info@onetournament.uk or contact us on WhatsApp.
Ready to play on a national stage?
Give your players the opportunity to compete against teams they’ve never faced before, enjoy a professionally organised tournament and potentially qualify for the One Tournament National Grand Final.
Experience the atmosphere, competition and memories that make the Nationals special.
For bookings, prices, dates and availability, visit the One Tournament Nationals 2027 page or contact info@onetournament.uk.
The Big One 2027 – 9v9 & 11v11 Tournament Information
The UK’s Premier Two-Day Youth Football Tournament
Overview
The Big One is a two-day grassroots football tournament bringing together boys’ and girls’ teams from across the UK and overseas.
Held at the historic Lilleshall National Sports Centre, the tournament combines competitive football, quality opposition and a memorable weekend for players, coaches and families.
Teams compete in group stages on the first day, followed by ability-matched Cup and Plate knockout competitions on the second day.
When is The Big One?
Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 July 2027
The tournament takes place over two days, with fixtures and knockout competitions scheduled across the weekend.
Who can enter?
The Big One welcomes eligible grassroots clubs and school teams with FA affiliation or an international equivalent.
Age groups are based on the 2026/27 football season.
Boys
U11–U16
Girls
U12, U14 and U15
Player eligibility
Boys registered with Premier League or EFL academies during the 2026/27 season are not eligible.
Girls of all playing levels may participate, subject to the relevant registration and eligibility requirements.
Girls’ players must meet the tournament’s FA Whole Game System (WGS) registration requirements.
Guest-player allowances and documentation requirements should be confirmed with the events team before entering.
If you’re uncertain about player eligibility, contact info@onetournament.uk before booking.
Entry fees and booking
The tournament entry fee covers the two-day competition.
9v9: £299 per team
11v11: £350 per team
Accommodation is arranged separately through One Tour, where required.
Local teams
Teams based within 80 miles of Lilleshall National Sports Centre that do not require accommodation may apply for a place through the Local Team Ballot.
Places are limited and subject to approval.
Travelling teams
Teams travelling from more than 80 miles away must arrange their accommodation through One Tour.
After booking tournament entry, teams will receive an accommodation request form to provide their group requirements.
For booking details, visit The Big One 2027 booking page.
Where is the tournament held?
Lilleshall National Sports Centre
Near Telford, Shropshire, England.
The former National Football Centre is known for its football history, natural grass pitches and professional sporting facilities.
How does the tournament work?
Day 1 – Group Stages
Teams compete in group-stage matches against other participating clubs.
Matches are scheduled according to age group and format.
The advertised target is approximately 80–100 minutes of football per team on the first day.
Results determine the knockout competition pathway for the following day.
Day 2 – Cup and Plate Knockouts
Teams progress into ability-matched Cup or Plate competitions based on their group-stage performances.
Knockout matches take place on the second day.
Teams compete for trophies and medals.
The competition aims to conclude by lunchtime.
Final match durations, group sizes and playing schedules depend on the number of teams entered and may change if entries are withdrawn.
What tournament formats are available?
The Big One features 9v9 and 11v11 football, depending on the age group.
The appropriate format is displayed when selecting your team’s age category on the booking page.
Are qualified referees provided?
Yes. Match officials are arranged by One Tournament.
For 11v11 matches, the tournament advertises four officials per pitch.
Teams do not need to provide their own assistant referees.
Are academy players allowed?
Boys’ teams
Players registered with Premier League or EFL academies during the 2026/27 season are not eligible.
Girls’ teams
Girls of all playing levels may participate, provided they meet the tournament’s registration and eligibility requirements.
Contact our events team if you are unsure about a player’s eligibility or guest-player status.
What identification is required?
Teams must be able to provide suitable documentation to verify player identities and eligibility if requested.
Spot checks may be carried out during the tournament.
If your team intends to include guest players, contact the events team before booking to confirm the applicable rules and documentation.
What prizes are awarded?
Trophies for Cup and Plate winners.
Medals for winners and runners-up.
Recognition for teams progressing through the knockout competitions.
Is accommodation required?
Travelling teams
Teams based more than 80 miles from the venue must arrange their accommodation through One Tour.
After tournament entry is booked, our team will send an accommodation request form.
The accommodation process includes:
Submit your group’s accommodation requirements.
Receive an invoice for the initial 50% accommodation payment.
Pay the remaining 50% balance eight weeks before the tournament.
Local teams
Teams within 80 miles of the venue that do not require accommodation may apply through the Local Team Ballot.
Local ballot spaces are limited and subject to approval.
Accommodation booked independently by travelling teams does not satisfy the tournament’s accommodation booking policy.
Please review the published booking terms before making payment.
What accommodation and tour packages are available?
One Tour offers accommodation packages for travelling teams and families, subject to availability.
Options may include:
Local hotels and other approved accommodation.
Breakfast-inclusive packages.
Optional lunch and evening meals.
Support with group room requirements.
Additional football experiences and excursions.
For international teams, extended football tour packages may also be available.
Contact info@onetournament.uk or message us on WhatsApp for details.
Are there attractions nearby?
Yes. Teams and families can extend their visit with activities around Telford and Shropshire.
Popular options include:
Alton Towers Theme Park.
Bowling and other indoor entertainment in Telford.
Local attractions and family activities.
Additional team-building experiences.
Activities and travel arrangements are separate from tournament entry unless specifically included in an agreed package.
Questions or need help?
Our team can help with age groups, entry requirements, accommodation and tournament availability.
Email: info@onetournament.uk
WhatsApp: Message the One Tournament team
Bookings: The Big One 2027
Ready to join The Big One 2027?
Give your team two days of competitive football at one of England’s most historic sporting venues.
With quality opposition, Cup and Plate competitions and the opportunity to create lasting memories, The Big One is an excellent way to finish the season.
Super Small Sided (SSS) is our new 3V3 and 1v1 tournament format that runs all year round with 3v3 tournaments popping up all year round. Find your local session via our Book & Browse page here
Winners of various regional pop up heats progress to a National Final.
Games are played inside an inflatable 3v3 pitch 15×10 meters on a solid floor sports hall/4g/grass.
Games are usually 6-8 mins in length, and our usual tournament strategy is we have a cup, plate and shield opportunity so lots of chances to play a knock out game and win and for similar ability players to contest int he knock outs.
You can come with a coach or if you are just a group of friends a adult over 18 can check you in on the day.
We do allow academy players to enter this and they should enter one year group up for boys and girls.
Also you don’t need a keeper. So who is up for this? Book and Browse here.
The One Tournament England Experience LDN
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One Tournament proudly presents the “One Tournament England Experience London,”
A brand new tour experience where teams get the option to take part in a football tournament ( if one is available) or play a tour match in the capital of world football London, home to multiple Premiership teams.
This is where the thrill of the game meets iconic locations.
As part of this extraordinary experience, you and your football family can embark on a personal ONE hour tour of Wembley Stadium where you will get the chance to walk down the hallowed tunnel, soak in the aura of the changing room, and stand pitch-side in the presence of greatness. It’s a chance to be part of history and to feel the passion that fills this iconic stadium.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Before/after your Wembley adventure you will also get the option to head to the the O2 Arena where you and your football family will get to take part in the fun, exciting and interactive TOCA football experience to create lifelong memories.
This is more than just a day trip; it’s an overnight football extravaganza where your stay includes a one night stay in a 3 or 4-star hotel with breakfast provided.
We will build a bespoke package for your group based, with options to see the sights, watch a professional match or have a training session with an academy coach.
So how does it work
Now, let’s address some common questions:
Can girls’ teams participate?
Absolutely! We welcome girls’ teams U9 to U18, we create the pefect getaway see the signs, hit up the best shops, kick balls and make it one to remember, we can even get you tickets to a WSL game.
Can academy players join the fun?
Of course! This football experience is inclusive, and all football enthusiasts are invited. We know the tournaments that allow this can make your trip one to remember! We have school groups, youth groups and club teams come on this tour.
Worried about your team’s skill level?
No need to fret. Our network is wide and we can help you play a friendly match and we’ll match teams based on ability, nearly 1000 teams play our tournaments every year so we are well connected.
Will we get to play on the Wembley pitch?
While we can’t promise you a spot on the hallowed turf, keep playing well and maybe Mr Tuchle or Mrs Wiegman will call you up.
Don’t want to stay in a hotel?
No problem! If you prefer a day trip without the overnight stay, we can arrange a special deal for you. Just drop us an email, or contact us via whats app and we’ll see what we can do.
The tour can feature what activity you want and we try to get in two activities a day, One Tournament was born in London, we know it well, so we know where the fun is at!
Get your team ready, because it’s time to turn your football dreams into reality for the ultimate football experience . Join us for the “One Tournament England Experience London” and be part of the magic. Wembley, here we come ( If thats what you want)!
How much does it cost?
We have different prices for children and adults depending if you are playing or staying overnight with bed and breakfast. Visit our tournament page to get full pricing options.
How does it work
Do you have to take part in all of the activities on offer or can you customise your package
We do have some set packages depending where you are based. However if looking for something bespoke drop the team a message were here to make memories for your team.
We will post up the fixtures to your event 24 - 48 hours before your tournament, click on > Categories > Your Age group to get fixtures and league tables for your event
One Tournament Nationals London – Walton on Thames
One Tournament Nationals Midlands – Warwick
One Tournament Nationals North- Sheffield
One Tournament Nationals Ireland – Dublin
One Tournament Nationals South – Southampton
One Tournament Nationals Wales – Nr Cardiff
One Tournament Big One Boys
One Tournament Big One Girls
One Tournament World Club Championships
One Tournament England Experience
If you spot an error on your fixtures please email us.
REGIONAL VENUES FOR THE ONE TOURNAMENT NATIONAL THE WINNERS OF THESE EVENTS MEET IN THE GRAND FINAL
LONDON REGION VENUE
Elmbridge Xcel Sports Hub, Waterside Drive, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey KT12 2JP
Brand new state of the art complex with a stadium vibe, and home to semi-professional club Walton Casuals. This is a great enclosed tournament venue for our One Tournament Nationals, London region. On the London/Surrey border, both Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventures are under 8 miles away.
SOUTH REGION VENUE
Stoneham Lane Football Complex, Southampton, SO16 2PA
Stoneham Lane Football Complex is Hampshire FA new 9 million pound state of the art football facility. Located just off the A27 the impressive complex boasts 3 full-sized 4g pitches. With Paultons Park Theme Park and New Forest within short driving distance, it’s a perfect venue in the south for the One Tournament Nationals road trip.
MIDLANDS REGIONAL VENUE
TBC
NORTH REGIONAL VENUE
Sheffield Hallam University,Bawtry Road, Sheffield, S9 1UA
This 6 million state of the art facility has several high quality grass pitches, all used by professional academy sides. Its one of the largest multi sports facilities in Yorkshire with a fantastic roof top viewing gallery for spectators.
The One Tournament Grand Final will be played at
Oakham School
Set within a beautiful historic campus in the heart of Rutland, Oakham School offers an impressive setting for the One Tournament National Finals.
With excellent sports facilities, spacious grounds, and high-quality pitches, it provides the perfect stage for players, coaches, and families to enjoy a memorable finals weekend as teams compete to become national champions.
These are real comments from real coaches or parents that have attended our tournaments.
” Thanks guys for a great tournament and organising. A mention to the referees who were great too. Look forward to your 2020 entries around the UK.” Paul Marshall
“Heighington AFC under 10s had an amazing day, the lads loved every minute” Anderson Madhouse
“Thanks for a great day Wirral Wales Boys, winners today, had a great time and can’t wait to come back” Kevin Riley
“Great day for the @one_tournament at St Georges Park with @PexPorto wonderful experience for the kids and fantastic organisation on the day well done to everyone involved” Dan Collins
“@onetournament Weymouth Youth Fc under 10s had an amazing day at St Georges National Football Centre. Despite the rain, the tournament was superbly run and the boys had a brilliant time and experience” Jon Williams
Check out our OneTournament You Tube page which highlights some of the finals and classic matches played at our events
Explore our upcoming football tournaments and tours with the One Tournament brochure.
Whether you’re looking for a competitive tournament or a football experience for your team, complete our short enquiry form to access the brochure and find out more.