If you’ve ever watched a junior high football game, you know that every pass, catch, and kick depends on the right-sized football. Too big, and young players struggle to grip and throw it properly. Too small, and it won’t prepare them for the next level of play. So, what size football is best for junior high players?
I’ve been there—standing in a sports store, staring at rows of footballs labeled with different sizes, wondering which one was right. The last thing you want is to buy the wrong ball, making it harder for a young athlete to develop their skills.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about football sizes, especially for junior high players. I’ll also share some expert tips to help you pick the right ball so your young athlete can play their best. Let’s dive in!
Contents
Understanding Football Sizes
When choosing a football, size matters. Each level of play has a specific ball size designed for the age and skill level of the players. Using the right size helps with grip, control, and overall performance.
Different Football Sizes by Age
Football sizes vary based on the player’s age and league requirements. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Pee Wee (Size 5): Designed for kids aged 6-9. It’s smaller and lighter for better grip.
- Junior (Size 6): Perfect for ages 10-12, including most junior high players. It’s slightly bigger than a pee wee football but still easy to handle.
- Youth (Size 7): Used by 12-14-year-olds. It’s a step closer to the official football size used in high school and beyond.
- Official (Size 9): The standard football size for high school, college, and professional leagues. It’s too large for most junior high players.
Using the wrong football size can make passing, catching, and kicking more difficult. For junior high players, the junior size (Size 6) or youth size (Size 7) is usually the best option, depending on the player’s strength and hand size.
What Size Football is Best for Junior High?
Now, let’s get straight to the point—what’s the best football size for junior high players?
Standard Football Size for Junior High Players
Most junior high leagues recommend a junior size 6 football for players aged 10-12. It offers the right balance of weight and grip, making it easier for young athletes to throw, catch, and carry the ball.
For older or stronger junior high players (ages 12-14), a youth size 7 football might be a better fit. This ball is slightly larger and heavier, helping players transition to the official size used in high school.
Football Size Chart by Age Group
| Age Group | Recommended Size | Football Length (inches) | Football Weight (ounces) |
| 6 – 9 years | Pee Wee (Size 5) | 10.5 – 11.5 | 10 – 11 |
| 10 – 12 years | Junior (Size 6) | 11 – 11.5 | 11 – 12 |
| 12 – 14 years | Youth (Size 7) | 11.5 – 12.5 | 12.5 – 13.5 |
| 14+ years | Official (Size 9) | 11.75 – 12.5 | 14 – 15 |
This table provides a clear comparison of football sizes based on age group, making it easier to choose the right one. Let me know if you need any changes or additional details!
How Junior and Youth Footballs Compare
If you’re unsure whether to go with a junior or youth football, here’s a quick comparison:
- Junior Football (Size 6): Lighter, smaller, and easier to grip. Best for younger junior high players.
- Youth Football (Size 7): Slightly bigger and heavier. A great choice for stronger players preparing for high school football.
Choosing the right size helps young players develop their skills while ensuring they stay comfortable and confident on the field.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Football
Picking the right football isn’t just about size. Other factors affect how well a young player can throw, catch, and control the ball.
Grip and Material
The feel of a football matters. Most youth footballs are made from one of three materials:
- Rubber: Affordable and durable, great for practice.
- Composite Leather: Offers better grip and feels more like real leather.
- Genuine Leather: The highest quality but needs maintenance and is more expensive.
For junior high players, composite leather is often the best choice. It provides a solid grip without being too slick or rough on young hands.
Weight and Feel
A football should feel comfortable in the hands. If it’s too heavy, a player may struggle to throw tight spirals. If it’s too light, passes might wobble. The right balance helps young athletes build strength and accuracy.
League Regulations
Some leagues have rules about which football size and type can be used. Before buying, check with the coach or league guidelines. This ensures your child practices with the right ball for games.
Best Football Brands for Junior High Players
Not all footballs are made the same. Some brands stand out for their durability, grip, and overall performance.
Top Recommended Brands
Here are some of the best footballs for junior high players:
- Wilson GST: Great grip and durability. Used in many youth leagues.
- Nike Vapor 24/7: Soft feel and excellent for learning proper throwing techniques.
- Under Armour 495: Strong grip with a tacky surface for better control.
- Rawlings Composite: Affordable and durable for practice and games.
Best Footballs for Junior High Players (Brand, Size, Features)
| Brand | Size | Key Features |
| Wilson GST | Youth (Size 7) | High-quality grip, durable leather, used in many leagues |
| Nike Vapor 24/7 | Junior (Size 6) | Soft touch, excellent for developing passing skills |
| Under Armour 495 | Youth (Size 7) | Tacky surface for better grip, strong durability |
| Rawlings Composite | Junior (Size 6) | Affordable, composite leather, good for practice |
This table highlights the best footballs for junior high players based on size and features. Let me know if you’d like any modifications!
What to Look for in a Quality Football
When shopping for a football, keep these features in mind:
- Laces: Deep laces help players grip and throw better.
- Durability: A well-made ball lasts longer, even with daily use.
- Weather Resistance: Some balls handle rain and cold better than others.
A high-quality football can make a big difference in a young player’s confidence and skill development. Investing in the right one sets them up for success.
How to Maintain Your Football for Longevity
A good football can last a long time if you take care of it. Proper maintenance keeps the grip strong, the shape intact, and the ball game-ready.
Proper Inflation Guidelines
A football that’s too soft won’t fly right. A ball that’s too hard is tough to grip. The key is keeping it at the right air pressure.
- Check the PSI (Pounds per Square Inch): Most junior high footballs should be between 7–9 PSI.
- Use a Quality Pump: Always inflate slowly and avoid over-pumping.
- Check the Pressure Often: Temperature changes can affect how firm the ball feels.
Cleaning and Storage Tips
Dirt and moisture can wear down the ball’s material. Here’s how to keep it in great shape:
- Wipe it Down After Every Use: A damp cloth removes dirt and sweat.
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Mild soap and water work best for cleaning.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Heat and moisture can weaken the leather or composite surface.
- Keep it Off Hard Surfaces: Avoid bouncing it on concrete to prevent damage.
Taking a few extra steps to maintain your football can make a huge difference in its lifespan. A well-kept ball performs better and feels better in play.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Happens if I Use the Wrong Size Football?
Using the wrong size makes passing, catching, and controlling the ball harder. If it’s too big, a player may struggle with grip and accuracy. If it’s too small, it won’t prepare them for the next level.
Can Junior High Players Use an Official-Size Football?
Most junior high players aren’t ready for an official (Size 9) football. It’s too large and heavy for developing hands. A junior (Size 6) or youth (Size 7) football is the better choice.
How Do I Know If a Football Is the Right Size for My Child?
Here’s a simple way to test:
- Have them grip the ball with one hand.
- Their fingers should reach the laces comfortably.
- They should be able to throw a tight spiral with control.
If the ball feels too big or hard to handle, go one size smaller.
Common Football Size Issues and Fixes
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
| Ball is too big to grip | Using the wrong size (too large) | Switch to a junior (Size 6) or youth (Size 7) football |
| Passes wobble in the air | Incorrect grip or ball is underinflated | Adjust grip, check air pressure (7-9 PSI) |
| Hard to catch the ball | Slippery material or too heavy | Choose a football with tacky grip (composite leather) |
| Ball wears out quickly | Poor maintenance or rough surfaces | Clean after use, store in a cool, dry place |
| Difficult to throw far | Ball is too heavy for strength level | Start with a lighter, smaller football |
This table helps identify common football size problems and simple ways to fix them. Let me know if you need any tweaks!
Conclusion
Choosing the right football size for junior high players is important. The right ball helps with grip, control, and overall performance. A junior (Size 6) or youth (Size 7) football is usually the best fit. It allows young athletes to develop their skills without struggling with a ball that’s too big or too small.
It’s not just about size, though. Factors like grip, material, and weight also make a difference. A well-made football can boost confidence and help a player improve faster. Taking care of the ball—keeping it clean, storing it properly, and maintaining the right air pressure—will also make it last longer.
By choosing wisely, you give a young player the best chance to enjoy the game and build strong fundamentals.
