Following extensive review and discussion, US Youth Soccer, AYSO, and US Club Soccer have collectively decided to move to an age group player formation cycle that runs from August 1 to July 31, starting with the 2026-27 season/registration year. This change was made based on additional critical feedback, data, and expert input to better align players with their school-grade peers.
• Transitioning to an 8/1-7/31 age grouping is a return to the former grouping prior to 2017. Calendar birth year was mandated by US Soccer when most youth soccer was previously using school age. • The majority of youth soccer is non-competitive/recreational. The benefits of youth sport participation are numerous, but USYS feels that the social elements are some of the most important. • While using the calendar birth year age grouping, USYS heard frequently from families asking for their children to play with their classmates. • Using the school year grouping creates the fewest trapped players. • USYS feels that school year grouping promotes stronger team chemistry and retention by allowing children to play with their schoolmates and closest friends. • Grouping by school year often places players in a more consistent emotional and physical developmental environment. • School age grouping will help college recruitment. Players of the same graduating class will be participating together in highlevel tournaments and matches.
