2026/27 PLAYER AGE GROUP ALIGNMENT
Frequently Asked Questions
2026–27 AGE GROUP BREAKDOWN
U-6: August 1, 2020 – July 31, 2021
U-7: August 1, 2019 – July 31, 2020
U-8: August 1, 2018 – July 31, 2019
U-9: August 1, 2017 – July 31, 2018
U-10: August 1, 2016 – July 31, 2017
U-11: August 1, 2015 – July 31, 2016
U-12: August 1, 2014 – July 31, 2015
U-13: August 1, 2013 – July 31, 2014
U-14: August 1, 2012 – July 31, 2013
U-15: August 1, 2011 – July 31, 2012
U-16: August 1, 2010 – July 31, 2011
U-17: August 1, 2009 – July 31, 2010
U-18: August 1, 2008 – July 31, 2009
U-19: August 1, 2007 – July 31, 2008
U-20: August 1, 2006 – July 31, 2007
GENERAL INFORMATION
U.S. Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), USSSA, and MLS NEXT have jointly confirmed updates to player age group alignment beginning with the 2026–27 seasonal year.
With this update, governing bodies will move away from the calendar-year format (January–December) and return to a season-based model that runs from August 1 through July 31.
To remain eligible for league participation and sanctioned competitions within U.S. Youth Soccer, MLS NEXT, EA, and US Club Soccer, all ALBION teams must follow this updated structure.
SUPPORTING OUR PLAYERS AND FAMILIES
We recognize that changes to age group structure may raise questions for families. Our staff is actively reviewing all details and preparing clear guidance to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition.
ALBION remains committed to supporting each player’s development while minimizing disruption during the 2026–27 season.
WHAT IS BEING UPDATED?
Starting with the 2026–27 season, age groups will be determined by a seasonal cutoff, beginning August 1 and ending July 31 of the following year.
Under the current system, players are grouped by birth year from January 1 through December 31. That model was introduced in 2017 as part of U.S. Soccer’s effort to align with international standards.
WHO APPROVED THIS CHANGE & WHAT IS THE REASONING?
This update is being implemented by MLS NEXT, EA, GA, U.S. Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, and AYSO after extensive evaluation, collaboration, and analysis of long-term player development trends.
The decision was driven by the goal of better aligning players with their school-age peers, increasing accessibility, and creating a more inclusive and development-focused youth soccer environment.
WHO WILL BE IMPACTED?
All ALBION competitive programs will transition to the new age group alignment, with the exception of the MLS NEXT Homegrown division, which will continue operating under a birth-year model.
Because this adjustment applies across the youth soccer landscape, some players may be placed into different age groups than in previous seasons, and team structures for 2026–27 may change accordingly.
Our technical staff is working closely to ensure player development remains the top priority throughout this process.
WHICH COMPETITIONS FOLLOW THIS STRUCTURE?
The seasonal-year age group alignment will apply to all sanctioned leagues and tournaments governed by the organizations listed above.
NEXT STEPS
ALBION will continue monitoring guidance and updates from national and regional associations to remain fully compliant while delivering the best possible experience for our members.
Additional information, timelines, and implementation details will be shared as they become available. As always, our focus remains on helping every ALBION player develop, improve, and succeed within our programs.
