https://www.hscflames.org https://www.hscflames.org/agegroupchange <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Beginning with the 2026–27 season/registration year, US Youth Soccer, AYSO, and US Club Soccer will transition to a new age group player formation cycle running from August 1 to July 31. </span> </p> <p> <span> ​ </span> </p> <p> <span> This change follows extensive review, data analysis, and collaboration among national youth soccer organizations. The goal is to better align age groups with school-grade levels, creating a more inclusive and developmentally appropriate environment for players across the country. </span> </p> <p> <span> ​ </span> </p> <h3> <strong> What Families Need to Know </strong> </h3> <ul> <li> <span> The new August 1 – July 31 age group cycle will be used for all leagues and competitions sanctioned by U.S. Soccer. </span> </li> <li> <span> This includes major programs such as National League, Presidents Cup, and National Championships. </span> </li> <li> <span> Beginning with the 2026–27 year, players will be grouped more closely with their school peers. </span> </li> <li> <span> ​ </span> </li> </ul> <h3> <strong> Why the Change Was Made </strong> </h3> <p> <span> US Youth Soccer CEO Tom Condone shared: </span> </p> <blockquote> <span> “At US Youth Soccer, our mission is to support the development of every player. After careful collaboration with our partners and listening to our membership, we believe this shift to an August 1 player formation cycle better aligns with school calendars, supports social and individual needs, and ultimately enhances the youth soccer experience for families across the country.”​ </span> </blockquote> <h3> <strong> When This Takes Effect </strong> </h3> <p> <span> The new age group formation cycle will go into effect beginning with each organization member’s 2026–27 season/registration year. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> </div> <div> <img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/00b0908f/dms3rep/multi/Age+Chart+2026-2027.jpg" alt=""/> </div> Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:38:29 GMT https://www.hscflames.org/agegroupchange thumbnail