Starting for the 2026–2027 seasonal soccer year (August 1, 2026 – July 31, 2027), youth soccer programs across the country will adopt a new age-group cut-off date of August 1 instead of January 1.
You can use
this tool to determine your player's age group based on their date of birth.
Why the change?- Better aligns youth soccer teams with the school-year cycle.
- Most effectively reduces the number of “trapped players” - “Trapped” players are those who, due to soccer age group cut-offs, are in an older soccer age group than their school year.
- Belief that reverting to the pre-2017, Aug. 1–July 31 age group format will best support player development and improve overall balance and participation across youth soccer.
- Three of the major soccer governing bodies including US Club, US Youth Soccer and the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) are all following the adjusted age group cutoff dates.
Resource links:
US Soccer Club AnnouncementUS Club Age Groups 2026-272026-27 Age Group Chart