AGE
GROUP CHANGES
Why the change?
Fewer players caught in between
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Shifting the age groups helps minimize situations where players are separated from their classmates simply because of a calendar-year cutoff.
Better alignment with the school year
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Teams are organized to match the academic calendar, making social, emotional, and developmental continuity easier for players and families.
A return to a proven development model
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Moving back to the August 1 – July 31 age group structure (used prior to 2017) supports more balanced teams, healthier competition, and stronger long-term player development.
Consistency across youth soccer
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Leading organizations—US Club Soccer, US Youth Soccer, and AYSO—have all adopted this updated age group framework, creating alignment across leagues and competitions.
2026–2027 Age Group Calculator
FREQUENTLY
ASKED
QUESTIONS
Under the new age group structure, my player is not moving up. Does that mean they are repeating an age group?
Not necessarily. The revised age group framework is intended to better match soccer age groups with the school-year calendar, placing players alongside classmates and peers. While it may look like some players are staying in the same age group longer, this shift simply reflects a calendar realignment. For many players, the extra time can be a positive — offering more opportunity to build confidence, sharpen skills, and grow into leadership roles before advancing.
I believe my player should be considered to play up even though the new dates place them in the same age group. Is that possible?
All players who would like to be considered to play up, should plan to attend the older age group tryouts to be assessed with other players in that age group based on the new calendar. (eg, if your player is U13 next year and would like to play U14, then attend the U14 age group sessions)
My 8th grader has an early summer birthday and now falls into an older age group. Will there be spring playing opportunities?
Yes. We are aware that some 8th-grade players with earlier summer birthdays may be grouped differently under the new structure. There will be options for these players to participate during the spring season. We are currently awaiting final guidance from our leagues and will communicate specific details as soon as they are confirmed.
My high school senior falls into the U19 age group. Are they eligible to play under the new calendar?
Yes. High school seniors who fall within the U19 age group will remain eligible to participate under the updated age group calendar. Additional details from our leagues — including any distinctions between U18 and U19 participation — will be shared once finalized.
