YEL League Saturday

The YEL is based in Nottinghamshire and its regional footprint also extends into parts of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire. Its regionalised approach is intended to place teams in suitable local competition across this area, while home-and-away fixtures give each age group a regular programme of matches.

Football through the age groups

The competition takes players from their first organised age-group football into the older youth formats. The youngest sections use small-sided 3v3 and 5v5 football, followed by 7v7, 9v9 and 11v11 as players move through the age groups. This staged structure allows the playing format to change with the children’s age.

YEL publishes dedicated information for each age group from under-7 to under-14. These sections help parents, coaches and managers find relevant teams and practical guidance without having to work through information for the whole league.

League and cup competition

YEL combines league fixtures with cup football. Its league programme is organised as winter and spring competitions, with teams placed in ability-based groups and movement between groups used to support appropriately matched games. Cup competitions are available in the older small-sided and youth age groups from under-10 to under-14.

The Saturday league is distinct from YEL’s Sunday competition, although the same broad age range is available on both days. This gives clubs a clear choice of playing day within the YEL structure.

Sportsmanship and respect

Founded as the Young Elizabethan League, the YEL says it has delivered youth football in the East Midlands for more than 60 years. Its stated purpose is to create opportunities for boys and girls to enjoy football in organised, safe environments.

Respect is central to the league’s public identity. Its long-standing message is “Sportsmanship above all”, supported by a discipline and Respect policy focused on the experience of players, referees, coaches and opponents.

Official information

Parents and players can use the official YEL teams pages to explore clubs and age groups. Clubs considering entry can consult the official joining information. Current fixtures, results and tables are available through FA Full-Time.

TeamStats is an independent football directory. It is not the Young Elizabethan League or The Football Association.

Reviewed August 2026.