2026/27 Age Group Change

Age Group Change FAQ's

Why is this change happening?

U.S. Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, and AYSO agreed to this change.

The Girls Academy League and MLS Next later announced they would also make this change.

What is changing?

Starting with the 2026-27 season, youth soccer will move from the current registration window (January-December), to a new window (August-July) for age grouping. 

• Current Window: January 1 - December 31
• New Window: August 1 - July 31
  

Will registration be based on a player’s school year, grade level, or DOB?

Registration will be based on a player’s date of birth and not their grade level in school. Players who have been held back a year in school, or who are a year ahead, will not be affected.

When exactly does this change take effect?

The new August 1 – July 31 system starts with the 2026-2027 seasonal year (fall 2026 tryouts and registration). The entire 2025-2026 season remains under the current birth year rules.

Will my child have to repeat or skip an age group?

Most players will simply shift into the new grouping without repeating or skipping a full year of soccer. For example, a player born in September who is currently on a "younger" birth year team will likely join classmates they already know from school.

Will this affect high school soccer eligibility?

No. High school eligibility is determined by school grade/age rules, not club soccer age groups.