What is changing?
Beginning in Fall 2026, US Club Soccer will move from birth year registration (Jan–Dec) to school year registration (Aug–July) for youth soccer age groups.
Why is this change happening?
The primary goals are:
To align teams more closely with school classmates.
To reduce social disruption (friends separated by calendar year).
To support long-term player development and retention.
When does this take effect?
The new structure will begin with the 2026–2027 seasonal year, starting in Fall 2026.
What is the difference between birth year and school year registration?
Birth Year (current system):
Players grouped strictly by calendar year (Jan 1 – Dec 31).
Example: All 2014-born players play together.
School Year (new system):
Players grouped based on the academic year (typically Aug 1 – July 31 cutoff).
Players generally play with others in the same grade.
Will my child’s team change?
Potentially. As always at the end of every season, their is always a chance of change, however this year, their will likely be more movement that usual. Due to the changes, some players will:
Follow their usual age group transition and 'move up' into the next age group. Ie an older 2012 (Jan 1-July 31) who is currently playing U14, will move into U15 age group next season.
Transition into their true age group and remain in the same age group they are currently participating in. Ie a younger 2012 (Aug 1-Dec 31) who is currently playing U14, will remain a U14 next season.
Clubs will communicate specific roster implications once official guidance is finalized.
Does this affect all leagues?
This change applies to competitions sanctioned by US Club Soccer & USYS.
This will effect all of HFC / ABYSA programming. Classic, Academy, Intermediate, Rec.
How will this impact player development?
From a developmental perspective:
Physical maturity differences will still exist (as they always do).
Coaches will continue to place players in environments that appropriately challenge them.
Player-centered development remains the priority.
What if my child is “on the bubble” (summer birthday)?
All players will continue to be treated on an individual basis. Our focus is always on player development & we will continue to place players where we believe, will be in their best interest for long-term development.
Specific guidance will be shared by your Directors as implementation approaches.
What should parents do right now?
Nothing immediately. Over the coming months:
Clubs will review roster structures.
Communication meetings will be scheduled.
Individual questions will be addressed PER PROGRAM as more details are finalized. REACH TO YOUR PROGRAM DIRECTORS WITH ANY QUESTIONS.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please reach out to your program Director. They will have the most up-to-date information as we approach Fall 2026.