Parents outraged as Kuopio football club divides young children into competitive and challenge teams

Parents in Kuopio, Finland, have sharply criticised Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS) after the club began dividing 7–8-year-olds into competitive and challenge teams, a practice that contradicts national football association guidelines, reports Yle.

One parent told Yle their child was devastated by the team selection, which they described as “unbelievably harsh” for young children. Yle has interviewed three parents from different families, all of whom oppose the change. “There’s no long-term benefit—only negative consequences for the club,” one parent said.

In February, nine children were placed outside the competitive team when the 2018 age group was divided. Fifteen were selected for the competitive squad after a two-month evaluation period. “I thought it sounded harsh, but maybe it could work,” one parent reflected, later concluding the split was too early.

The club’s criteria for selection—including activity level, competitiveness, skill, and “coachability”—have drawn criticism. “These are brutal expectations for a 7-year-old,” a parent told Yle. Some children lost motivation, with one switching to a different hobby after the decision.

KuPS defends the practice, arguing that grouping children by skill level benefits development. “Our goal is to serve as many players as possible with quality training,” said Samuel Bird, the club’s age-group coordinator. The club acknowledges flaws but denies intending to break up friendships or demoralise children.

The Football Association of Finland and Olympic Committee recommend keeping children of the same age together as long as possible, avoiding rigid categorisation. While clubs can set their own policies, the association encourages flexibility and movement between groups.

Parents also raised concerns about unequal resource allocation, though the club maintains the division ensures better training quality.