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.
Can my player “play up” with friends or teammates if they fall into a younger age group?
In most cases, we encourage players to remain within their assigned age group to support appropriate development, competitive balance, and consistency with the new cutoff dates. That said, we recognize that every player’s situation is unique. Requests to play up will be reviewed individually and discussed with coaches and club leadership before a decision is made.
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.
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?
Yes, but these decisions will be made on an individual basis. All players should plan to attend initial tryouts with their assigned age group based on the new calendar. Coaches and club leadership will evaluate each situation and communicate directly with families if a player is recommended to be assessed with an older age group.
