Following consultations with local clubs and leagues, Cumberland FA has confirmed several updates to its Youth County Cup competitions for the 2025/26 season.
In response to strong support from clubs via a recent questionnaire, the Under-13 to Under-16 mixed County Cup competitions will transition to single age band formats.
This change will be trialled as a one-year pilot and reviewed at the end of the season.
The move reflects the significant growth in youth football across Cumberland, with rising team numbers driving the need for more tailored competition structures.
There will be no changes to the format of the Under-12 and Under-18 Mixed competitions.
Feedback also highlighted concerns around the use of extra-time in cup matches. As a result, extra time will be removed from all Youth County Cup fixtures up to the semi-final stage.
Matches ending in a draw will go straight to penalties from the first round through to the quarter finals.
This decision considers sporting integrity, cost implications, and venue availability.
The format of Girls County Cups remain unchanged. The Under-12, Under-14, and Under-16 Girls County Cup competitions will continue to operate as double age band competitions, aligning with the structure of local girls’ leagues.
A county FA spokesman said: “We will be reviewing the future structure in alignment with the provision of youth leagues, and also considering the implications and impact of The FA Future Fit Proposals.”
For the first time, in line with feedback received from clubs, who supported a small fee to help enhance the reach of the competitions, an entry fee of £5 per team will be introduced across all County Cup competitions – both mixed and girls.
The entry fee will contribute to the overall delivery and the longer-term sustainability of the County Cup Programme.
For any queries, clubs can email [email protected] or call the office Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, on 01900 511800.
