06/02/2026
‼️‼️Important Update Regarding Changes to US Youth Soccer’s Age Group Formation‼️‼️
Following an in-depth evaluation of the youth soccer landscape in the United States, US Soccer lifted their 2016 mandate that required all affiliated organizations to move to the birth year age formation policy. As a result, USYS, US Club Soccer, and AYSO have announced their collaborative decision to revert youth programs to the previous school (or seasonal) age format. This determination was made after careful consideration, based on substantial feedback, significant data, and expert input.
Beginning in the Fall 2026 season, youth soccer organizations across the US will transition back to a seasonal-year registration format, reverting to the August 1-July 31 birthday cutoff dates used prior to the 2017 birth year mandate.
This change is intended to better align players with their classmates and peers, improve team continuity, reduce challenges associated with the "trapped player" phenomenon, and strengthen the overall youth soccer experience for players and families.
While we recognize that this transition may bring short-term challenges as clubs, teams, and leagues adjust, we remain optimistic about the long-term benefits for player development, participation, and enjoyment of the game—all of which lead our youth athletes to a brighter future in soccer and beyond!
We believe this change will provide several long-term benefits for players and the youth soccer community, including:
⚽ Greater opportunities for players to participate with classmates and friends
⚽ Stronger team continuity and club culture
⚽ Improved player retention and long-term participation
⚽ Reduced impacts of the trapped player phenomenon
⚽ Enhanced social, emotional, and athletic development
⚽ A more family-friendly and community-centered youth sports experience
Changes of this magnitude can create challenges during implementation. Players, families, coaches, and teams may experience adjustments to rosters, team structures, and competitive environments as organizations work through the transition. We understand that these changes may be difficult for some members of our soccer community and are committed to approaching the process with patience, transparency, and support. We are all in this together!
Throughout this transition, our mission remains the same: to provide every player with the best possible pathway for development, competition, health, safety, and enjoyment of the game.
The CSC Board of Directors has invested an incredible amount of care and consideration in each decision regarding this development. We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding while we continue to navigate this transition.
Please see the updated age divisions below.