US Soccer Moves Youth Age Cutoff to August 1 Beginning 2026–27
US Soccer has officially announced a nationwide change to youth age group formation, moving to an August 1 birthdate cutoff. This change will be implemented beginning with the Fall 2026 to 2027 seasonal year and will impact all affiliated youth clubs, leagues, and competitions across the country.
The shift is designed to better align youth soccer age groups with the academic school year. By using an August 1 cutoff, most players will compete alongside classmates they attend school with, creating stronger social connections, improved team cohesion, and more consistent peer group development both on and off the field.
For many families and players, this marks a significant transition from the current calendar year model. Some teams will experience roster adjustments, and certain players may move into different age groups than they are currently accustomed to. US Soccer has emphasized that the long-term goal is to support player development, retention, and enjoyment of the game by reducing mismatches in physical, emotional, and social maturity.
At Eleftheria Pancyprian Youth Soccer, we view this change as an opportunity to continue refining our development pathway. Our focus will remain on placing players in environments that best support their growth, confidence, and love for the game. Over the coming months, our technical staff and directors will review how this transition affects each age group and will communicate clearly with families well in advance of the 2026 to 2027 season.
We understand that changes like this often raise questions. Our club is committed to transparency and planning, ensuring a smooth transition for players, parents, and coaches. Additional information sessions, written updates, and individual conversations will be provided as we move closer to implementation.
We appreciate your continued trust and support as US Soccer takes this step toward a more school aligned youth soccer structure. Together, we will continue to prioritize development, education, and a positive soccer experience for every player in our club.
LINKS & REFERENCES
US Club Soccer update (6/10/25): https://usclubsoccer.org/age-group-cut-off-update-for-2026-27-season/
US Club Soccer Age Group Matrix: https://usclubsoccer.org/registration-player-age-groups/
Q & A
Why is this change happening?
US Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, American Youth Soccer Association, Girls Academy, and MLS Next Academy Division have decided to move to an age group formation that changes from January 1-December 31 birth year player placement, to the school age group calendar of August 1-July 31 placement to better align players with their school grade peers.
When does this change take effect?
The change will go into effect for the 2026-2027 season. There is no change during the current 2025-2026 season.
Is this change an Eleftheria thing or US Soccer?
This is a US Soccer decision, not an Eleftheria-specific change. The age group cutoff moving to August 1 is a national mandate, and all US Soccer–affiliated leagues and clubs will be required to follow it starting with the 2026–2027 season.
How do I know my player’s age group for 2026-2027?
See the age group calculator table on the U.S. Soccer Age Group Formation Tool or refer to the chart below.
Can a player play up an age group?
Yes, a player may be chosen to play up. The decision on player placement is made by coaching staff and technical leadership with several factors in mind - player skill level, soccer maturity, current development level, predicted future development level, and player commitment. A player who is selected to play up for one season may continue to play up during additional seasons or be placed back with their appropriate peer group at some point.
Can my child play in a younger age group?
No, players are not allowed to play down an age group. Players who were held back a grade in school will play with their appropriate age group based on their birth date.
Does the change apply to all age groups, or are existing Competitive age groups "grandfathered in"?
The change applies to all age groups.
How will EPSC handle the changes?
Our focus will remain on placing players in environments that best support their growth, confidence, and love for the game. Over the coming months, our technical staff and directors will review how this transition affects each age group and will communicate clearly with families well in advance of the 2026 to 2027 season.
Does this change align with school grade?
School grade in New York is determined by age on August 1st. For children who are 'up' or 'down' a school year at school, their soccer age group is determined by date of birth.
